It takes a lot of courage to go up on the stage and deliver a speech or render a performance. Stage fright can make even the best prepared person blunder on stage. Given below are some tips on how to overcome stage fright.
Know your stuff
Make sure you have had enough practice and are completely prepared. If you are giving a speech it is very important that you know all the points you need to cover. You would of course find it helpful to carry some note cards with you, but spending too much time looking down at them to get a cue of what to say next will do nothing but make you more nervous. Memorize your opening sentence and say it with confidence so that you can make a great first impression and the positive feedback from the audience will make you less nervous than before. Similarly, if you are giving a singing performance or something similar, make sure you have practiced enough so that you do not forget anything in the middle of your performance.
Acknowledge your stage fright
Use your fear to protect you and not to paralyze you. Donât be shy admitting your stage fright. Instead, accept it and you will feel more ready than ever to overcome it or at least control it to a large extent. Use your fear to identify your shortcomings and then work on them to overcome stage fear. Believe in yourself and be confident that even if you slip up once during the performance (or presentation) you will be able to gather your wits quickly and move on. Understand that the audience doesnât know you are scared till you show them you are. Try to control your fear by channeling it in a positive direction and using it to improve your performance.
Relax and be confident
Take a deep breath and relax. Donât worry about the outcome or consequences of your performance. Just concentrate on giving the performance your best shot and donât worry about how others will react to it. That part comes later and you need not worry yourself to death thinking about it. Listen to some relaxing music to soothe your nerves before the performance. Take a short nap to rest your mind. Take your mind off the performance by trying not to think about it and engaging your mind elsewhere such as reading a book, watching TV, or chatting with a friend.
The right attitude
Have a positive attitude and perform with a smile on your face. Hide all your fears behind a mask and it will not only make the audience enjoy your act but you too will feel better about the performance. If you slouch and keep worrying, it is bound to show on your face and the audience will also come to know of your fears. Even if you are not feeling confident pretend that you are the most successful orator or performer in the world and give it your best go. Keep telling yourself that you are good at this and that you have nothing to fear. Go on the stage to enjoy yourself and to make others happy.
Quick tips
Make sure you have everything you need with you for the performance. Keep a bottle of water with you if you are about to give a speech. Also, make sure the A/V system is working properly. Donât take alcohol, tea or coffee as it can make you jumpy during your performance. If it is a singing or dance performance, make sure the lights, spotlights are working properly. Take a quick look at yourself in the mirror before you get on the stage. Use humor to make your audience laugh. This would not only make your audience like you immediately but also help you relax instantly.
