Overcoming Stage Fright > Public Speaking Tips > Stage Fright Takes on Many Forms 

 

Stage Fright Takes on Many Forms

Stage fright is really nothing to laugh about.  For those that suffer with it, it becomes a source of both mental and physical stress.  Many people associate stage fright with speaking in public, however it can take on many different forms.  Some people can even have a case of stage fright whenever they are speaking with one individual.  This is an extreme case of shyness, but it does in fact happen.  Many entertainers that have to get up and perform in front of tens of thousands of people at a time are so ill before they have their performance that they get physically sick.  So with all the stresses associated with performing in front of an audience, how is it that they are able to get up and perform anyway?

One of the main things that it is important to remember is that these people love their craft.  The people that sing or perform in other ways for people love what they do, not because other people enjoy it necessarily but because they are able to find an outlet for their artistic abilities.  One example of somebody that had extreme stage fright but yet performed before thousands of people was Michael Jackson.  Even though he isn't on the scene as much as he was at one time, during 80s he was actually performing on a regular basis.  It was reported, however, that he would get so sick that he would actually vomit before each performance.  It is amazing, therefore, that he was actually able to get up and perform.  There are several other cases of famous performers that have had similar problems.

Some of the things that these performers did to get over their stage fright were to practice some relaxation techniques that you can practice as well.  These would include deep breathing exercises, such as those practiced during yoga, meditation and even the art of stretching.  Some people that have problems with their nerves, even when they are not in front of an audience, use these techniques in order to calm themselves and to be able to function normally.  You can also use these techniques to help you to remain calm in a situation that typically causes a lot of stress.  If you suffer from stage fright but it becomes necessary for you to be in front of an audience and then these three methods of relaxation can assist you in overcoming your fears.

So the next time you feel that you cannot perform because you're going to have to do it in front of a large audience, remember that there are many people that have had similar problems to you.  These are people that you have perhaps even enjoyed watching in a group atmosphere.  They are able to do it because they have learned that once they get on stage the fear often dissipates and that if they use the proper relaxation techniques they can overcome their initial stage fright with just a little work.  So take a deep breath or two and go ahead and give your presentation.  You will be surprised at how quickly the fear begins to disappear.

 

 

 

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