Do Not Let Fear and Anxiety Affect Your Acting or Performance

by Stanley Popovich

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Here's a technique to keep you from feeling stressed or fearful before your performance.


Many actors and performers get stressed and sometimes fearful before they go on stage to do their performance. Some worry that they might mess up or they will get so nervous they will be unable to perform. As a result, here is list of techniques that any actor or performer can use before they do their act in front of large number of people.

Some actors and performers can get stressed out just before they have to go on stage. When this happens, a person should take a deep breath and try to find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the problem. A person could get some fresh air, listen to some music, or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. This will help you to relax right before you go on stage.

One technique that is very helpful is to have a small notebook of positive statements that you can carry around with you before you do your performance. Whenever you come across an affirmation that makes you feel good, write it down in a small notebook that you can carry around with you in your pocket. Whenever you feel anxious, open up your small notebook and read those statements before you start your performance. This will help to manage your negative thoughts.

Some actors and performers can get anxious the night before they have to do their act. When this happens, visualize yourself doing the task in your mind. For instance, you have to sing in front of a large group of people. Using your mind, imagine that you are singing in front of a large audience. By doing the task in your mind, you will be better prepared to perform for real when the time comes. Self-Visualization is a great way to reduce the fear and stress of a coming situation.

Learn to take it one performance at a time. Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week, try to focus on the task at hand. Each performance that you perform can provide you with different insights on how to deal with your stress and anxiety. As you do each performance, try to learn from your mistakes.

Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your fears and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. Remember that it never hurts to ask for help.

There are ways to deal with your fears and anxieties so do not let them get the best of you. Remember that all you can do is to do your best each day, hope for the best, and take things in stride.
Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional information visit www.managingfear.com.

Copyright © Stan Popovich. Used with permission of the author. All rights reserved. Not to be reproduced or distributed.
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