How to Not Be Afraid of Performing Music or Speeches

culled from:wikihow.com

Steps

1

First, figure out why you're scared of performing, and if you really need to be afraid of that. Examples: "I am afraid of performing because I messed up last year" or "I don't want to sing this song in front of people because I didn't practice" or "I don't want to give this speech because I might disappoint my friends/ family/ speech teacher" and finally "I am scared of performing this piece because I think I am a bad performer"

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   Think. Is that really something you should worry about now? It probably isn't, so chill. Don't worry about repeating past mistakes. This is now. Don't worry about disappointing people. Just try your best, and if that's not enough to please them, nothing is. Don't worry that your a bad performer. No matter what your skill level is, if you do your best you will always do amazing. Besides, most people play way better than they think they do. DON'T worry if you're not prepared. Instead, act fast. If you have time, practice! If you don't, still do your best, and learn from your mistakes. (not saying it's okay to be unprepared)
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   If you're worried about something that's out of your control, forget it. Don't concern yourself with someone else's problem. Ex: Like if your worried about getting sick, or that your speaking partner forgot his lines.
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   On the day of the performance/ speech, make sure your stuff is ready! Have your speech written neatly or typed, make sure your music is in order, etc. You'll feel way more prepared.
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   Eat good meals (no stuff that could make your tummy hurt), and be well rested. You don't want to get sick or sleepy while performing!
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   Go take a jog. You'll release all that extra hyperactivity and feel more relaxed in no time. (just make sure you smell okay and aren't all sweaty right before your performance!)
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   Meditate. Instead of saying "Om" or those kinds of meditation words, chant "I will perform well. I will perform well. I will perform well."
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   Make sure you know the first part of your piece or word of your speech really well. Starting good will build confidence. And people tend to think about the first note they're going to play just before they perform. If they don't know it, this could be really bad.
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   Stop telling yourself you're not going to do well. Negative thoughts lead to negative actions. And don't be grumpy. Happiness will build confidence!
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   Minutes before you perform, Take deep breaths.
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    Draw a figure eight on your palm with your finger.
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    Think about something else. Talk with your friends, do some other activity, etc.
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    Drink some water.
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    Try not to think about the notes you're going to play just before you play them. Just go with the flow.
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    Just do your best. Even if you mess up, no one will notice, and if they do, remember: you wouldn't really care if someone else messed up. So they won't care if you do.
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    Have fun and just do the best you can! Don't focus on trying to please other people. First, focus on yourself, then focus on the audience.
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    Be yourself! Don't try to be like anyone else. It will just make you more nervous.