Performance anxiety, stage fright, fear of making mistakes—these are all part of the journey for many (dare I say most) singers. Whether you’re about to take the stage with your chorus or stepping up for a solo, nerves can sneak up on even the most seasoned performers. Building resilience as a singer means preparing not only musically but also finding ways to manage those anxious thoughts that can threaten your confidence.
In this post, we’ll explore common anxieties singers face and provide actionable tips for managing and overcoming them. Learning to navigate stage fright and self-doubt with self-compassion and patience will make you a more confident and resilient performer. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Stage Fright and Self-Doubt
Stage fright is a common experience for performers, often characterized by a racing heart, shaky hands, a dry mouth, or thoughts like “What if I forget the words?” or “What if I mess up?” Self-doubt can add to this, bringing on feelings like “I’m not good enough” or “I don’t belong on stage.” If this sounds familiar, know that it’s a normal part of performing.
Why do we feel this way? For many, singing feels uniquely vulnerable because your voice is so personal—it’s a piece of you. When you’re on stage, there’s no barrier between you and the audience, which can feel both exhilarating and intimidating. But remember, it’s a hurdle that all singers face at some point, and with practice, you can learn to manage it. Stage fright isn’t a barrier; it’s a challenge that you can learn to handle, helping you grow as a performer.
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Tips for Overcoming Stage Fright and Self-Doubt
- Focus on Mental Preparation as Much as Musical Preparation
We often spend hours on our songs, practicing every phrase until it feels second nature. However, we sometimes forget the importance of mental preparation. Before a performance, try some mindfulness exercises, like deep breathing or visualization. Picture yourself performing confidently and receiving positive energy from the audience. Ground yourself by focusing on the music, your purpose, and the joy of sharing your voice. This type of mental prep can be just as grounding as musical practice and can help you feel calm, focused, and ready when it’s time to perform. - Shift Your Focus from Fear to Sharing
When nerves strike, it’s usually because we’re focusing on ourselves—our own fears, our own concerns. Instead, try shifting your focus outward: think about the joy and inspiration you’re offering the audience. What do you want them to feel through your performance? How can you bring them into the music? This shift takes some of the pressure off and reminds you that the audience is there to enjoy your music, not to critique every note. By viewing performance as an act of sharing, you can reframe your nerves as excitement and purpose. - Practice Self-Compassion and Celebrate Small Wins
Every time you perform, no matter how small, you’re achieving something meaningful. Allow yourself to view mistakes as steps along the journey rather than as failures. This mindset shift is one of the most powerful tools for resilience. Think about your journey as a singer and recognize how much growth and effort it’s taken to get here. Reflect on your progress, no matter how small, and treat yourself with kindness. After each performance, celebrate the moments that went well and the progress you made. And if something didn’t go as planned? That’s okay—it’s just a step in the learning process. - Prepare with Intentionality
The better prepared you are musically, the more confident you’ll feel on stage. Beyond practicing the notes, try adding layers to your preparation by rehearsing in performance settings. Record yourself or perform for a friend or two. Get comfortable with “performing” as part of your preparation—it’s a great way to build confidence. Being well-prepared isn’t just about being technically accurate; it’s about being ready to handle the moment. Knowing that you’re prepared can help ease some of the self-doubt that creeps up before a performance. - Create a Pre-Performance Routine
Many singers find that routines help calm anxiety by adding a sense of control. Consider creating a pre-performance routine that helps you ground yourself, such as warming up, reciting a mantra, or visualizing a successful performance. Try breathing exercises, listening to an energizing song, or rehearsing positive affirmations. Consistent routines send a message to your brain that you’re prepared and safe, which can reduce nervousness. This routine can become a comforting ritual that helps calm your mind and prepare you for the stage. - Embrace the Adrenaline
Performance nerves don’t have to be negative! That jolt of adrenaline before you step on stage is actually there to help you focus and perform with energy. Reframe that adrenaline as your body’s way of rising to the occasion. Remind yourself that it’s normal, and rather than trying to suppress it, embrace it. With practice, that rush of energy can become part of your toolkit as a performer.
Using Support and Resources to Build Resilience
Sometimes, building resilience means seeking support from others. Reach out to SPARK! for guidance, whether you’re working on your confidence or trying to manage performance anxiety. Working with someone who understands the challenges of performing can help you develop personalized strategies for success. Remember, resilience isn’t built in isolation—it’s created through practice, support, and self-compassion.
Building Confidence Takes Practice
Building resilience as a singer isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s about embracing the process and recognizing that every time you face your nerves, you’re developing skills that make you stronger. The more you practice managing stage fright and self-doubt, the more confident you’ll feel stepping on stage. Each performance becomes an opportunity to grow, adapt, and refine your approach, helping you become a resilient and dynamic performer.
And remember, if you need support along the way, reach out to SPARK! for guidance. We’re here to help you navigate the unique challenges of singing, and we’ll work together to develop tools that let you perform with confidence.
❤
Rachel
SPARK! Music & Artistr 
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