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Can You Overcome Stage Fright?
Dear Tony,
I just attended a Ms. Fitness contest with my friend, a competitor. Seeing things from backstage was great, but it was also nerve-racking. My friend takes on anxiety as an enemy that needs to be dashed and clobbered. She says the backstage jitters help her perform even better.
That's not the case with me. I've got a big case of stage fright. What can I do to calm myself down? I really want to compete, but I'm scared to!
Kelly M. |
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Dear Kelly:
The most common fear in the world is getting up in front of an audience. So don't feel alone. I psyche myself up before making public appearances, but I still have a degree of that anxiety you feel. Everybody does.
The best thing to quell your fear of performing is to make certain you are completely prepared. Know your routine in your sleep. Practice your stage entrances and exits. Know that every minute you are on stage you are on display. Practice, practice and then practice some more. Do a couple of trial runs. Invite all your friends then ask them to bring friends you don't know. Perform for them, and get their feedback. With every practice and every show, you'll gain more confidence in your ability to slay the beast of fear.
No one is exempt from a small degree of stage fright. On the day before and the day of the competition avoid caffeine and alcohol. Eat healthy, fresh foods. Get a good, long night's rest. Have everything ready so you are fully prepared at least 24 hours before the show so you don't have to worry about anything the day of the show. Arrive at least an hour early. If you've prepared in this manner, you should be ready to show the audience and judges the best you have to offer.
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Ask Tony articles are reprinted by permission of Ms. Fitness magazine at P.O. Box 2490, White City, OR 97503. Ms. Fitness® is a registered trademark of Wally Boyko Productions, Inc., in the USA, Canada, European Union and other countries. All rights reserved. Wally Boyko Productions, Inc. P.O. Box 2490 White City, OR 97503 USA 1.541.830.0400 |
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