Getting Over Stage Fright
Stage fright is not a new concept or term. It predates public speaking itself. At least four out of every five people suffer from stage fright.
Even the most confident speakers get nervous before and during their speeches, but they are so good at hiding their nerves that you won’t notice.
Knowing this begs the question, “What is the secret key to overcoming stage fright?”
In reality, there is no magic formula for overcoming stage fright. The realization that we are about to be scrutinized by the public causes stage fright.
10 Tips for Overcoming Stage Fright and Public Speaking
The public is watching us, and any mistakes we make will be picked up on by thousands of people. It could be a watershed moment in our lives or careers. It could be a presentation or revelation of everything we’ve worked on for years. But don’t worry.
While there is no magic cure for stage fright, there are some very useful tips that can help you calm your nerves and feel more comfortable on stage until you build confidence over time.
How to Deal with Stage Fright.
1. Stage Fright Isn’t “Your” Issue
The first step toward overcoming stage fright is to recognize that it is a widespread problem, not just yours.
When you climb that stage, keep in mind that the vast majority of the audience would be terrified to even approach it.
Be confident that the fact that you’re standing there, on that stage, in front of hundreds of people, demonstrates that you’ve already won. You’ve already done something that most people would be terrified of. That is the first step toward developing confidence.
2. Be Prepared
Nothing boosts confidence more than admitting to yourself that you actually know what you’re going to say on stage.
When you’ve done your homework by researching and rehearsing, you should be able to step onto the stage and stay there.
If you begin speaking confidently and knowledgeably, members of the audience will respond positively and encourage you to continue. So keep in mind… Always arrive prepared.
3. Exercise for Relaxation
Calming your nerves can have a big impact on the outcome of any public performance. Take a light jog before your presentation, or relax with flexibility and concentration exercises like yoga and pilates.
Meditate and concentrate on resting each part of your body one by one. Clear your mind and reassure yourself that you are prepared.
4. Pretend Confidence
Faking confidence is a sure way to gain it. Even if you are filled with anxiety and your legs are trembling like leaves, tell yourself that you are confident.
Walk up that stage with the assurance of your role-model presenter. You should also be aware that smiling is the best way to fake confidence.
Don’t make a clown laugh or smile. Simply be yourself.
You could look around for something amusing or anything else that will lift your spirits. A smile reassures the audience that you are confident in your abilities. As a result, they’ll be more cooperative.
5. Practices
Rehearsals are required for all stage performances. If you are a musician, you should first practice in front of a mirror.
You could also record a video with your phone and play it back to evaluate your performance. This way, you can see for yourself what you need to work on.
Make sure you practice as if you’re standing in front of an audience. Make it a reality. A voice recorder is extremely useful because it allows you to hear yourself speak.
Rehearsals are essential for any performance and greatly aid in overcoming stage fright. Because you already know what you’re going to do, putting on a fantastic performance shouldn’t be too difficult.
6. Socialize
Socializing entails interacting with others. It is extremely beneficial to meet and talk with people prior to a performance.
Begin by involving your family and neighbors in discussions about the big day. When you arrive at the venue, you should also mingle with a few people.
This will allow your words to flow more freely when you’re on stage. Remember that it is recommended that you stretch before beginning any serious workout routine.
You are stretching your vocal cords and your confidence in this case. Interact with audience members (some most likely do not even know who you are). By doing so, you are telling yourself that the people in the audience are just like you and that you have no reason to be afraid of them. When you reach that level, all you have to do is carry on the conversation, albeit more professionally.
7. Avoid Direct Eye Contact
During a presentation, avoid making eye contact with members of the audience as much as possible until you are completely comfortable with them.
Eye contact can throw you off balance and sap your confidence. Make eye contact only when you are certain that the audience is with you.
8. Avoid Caffeine.
Caffeine before a performance is more harmful than beneficial. Caffeine may be tempted to make you more alert and sharp, but it actually has the opposite effect.
It has the potential to seriously undermine your self-esteem. Some people drink a little alcohol before getting on stage. This is not a bad idea, but keep it to a minimum. It can provide you with short-term false confidence on which to build.
9. Move Around
Never stand in one place. Move around. It not only makes the audience feel good about you, but it also allows you to stretch your legs and relieve stress. It also aids in avoiding eye contact.
10. Do Not Test Your Audience
Unless you are a household name, you should never test your audience. Asking questions and waiting for a response, asking your audience to do something, or wasting time on stage are all examples of stage etiquette. Remember, you want them on your side at all times.