Debunk these 3 myths about stage fright

Is stage fright the real problem? 

Sure, our nervous reactions make stepping on stage really uncomfortable. 

But although stage fright definitely sucks, it's NOT the enemy. 

Let's challenge three of the most common myths about stage fright...and see how learning to channel your nerves can help us make progress.

Myth #1: Stage fright is curable. 

Stage fright is our brain’s natural response to being outside of our comfort zone. Faced with the discomfort of speaking in front of a group of scary strangers, our brain signals “Danger! Danger!” and floods our body with adrenaline. Cue shaking hands, elevated heart rate, and sweaty armpits.  

Stage fright is definitely uncomfortable, and it needs to be managed so we can actually make it through our performance or presentation without passing out. But stage fright is NOT (as some people assume) a reaction that we can just turn “off”. 

There’s no magic pill to swallow that will make stage fright go away.  

And this is a good thing, because a quick fix is never the answer.

Having our brain signal “danger” whenever we are in a new situation is an essential coping mechanism, so numbing out our natural responses won’t solve any problems. We need our brain’s responses signalling “ouch” and “danger” and “hey, that hurts!” Without our brain telling us when we’re uncomfortable, we’d never feel fear or pain or anxiety. And all those responses are essential parts of being human. 

I believe that managing stage fright is the answer. You may never completely lose your jitters, but you can ABSOLUTELY handle your nerves effectively. The whole point is to build your confidence, so that you know you can speak up whenever you choose.

Myth #2: Stage fright is something to be ashamed of.

Ok, we’ve figured out that kicking stage fright doesn’t mean a quick fix or magic cure.  So why is it so darned tough to handle? 

Part of the problem may be because we’re conditioned to believe that talking in front of strangers should be easy. We all learned how to speak when we were toddlers, so why is it so hard for us when we’re grown up? It’s embarrassing. Shameful, even.  

Instead of seeking advice or building our confidence through practice, like we do whenever we learn any new skill, we hide away. We believe that we’re just crappy public speakers, and we’ll always be that way, no matter what. So we do everything we can to avoid the spotlight. 

And all that embarrassment? Yup, it just adds to our anxiety. We secretly assume that everyone has this figured out except for us, and we never solve the problem because we’re too embarrassed to talk about it or seek help. And it becomes a never-ending loop, avoiding stepping up and then feeling even more humiliated. Not to mention disempowered, disappointed, and disheartened. 

The good news? By acknowledging you want to manage your stage fright, you’re halfway to dealing with it. 

Myth #3: Stage fright only affects amateurs. 

Think professional entertainers and performers don’t deal with stage fright? Think again. If anything...it can be even worse for the pros, who perform for massive stadiums filled with screaming fans. Adele, who performs to sold-out shows around the globe, is candid about her stage fright, even describing it in one interview as “projectile vomiting”. 

So sure, professional entertainers and performers may have a lot more experience we do, but the pressure they encounter is also a million times worse than what we’ll ever face. Pressure and anxiety doesn’t magically evaporate when you sell a million albums, sadly. 

If big-name performers can overcome their anxiety and still conquer Carnegie Hall, YOU CAN TOO. And maybe you’ll be able to face your next challenge with a little healthy perspective. You may feel scared to death, but just think of Adele, and be grateful you’re not backstage at the Grammys, ready to perform.

*And remember: if you’re struggling with anxiety that is truly debilitating, please consult a health professional for assistance. Listen to your body, and seek help if you feel that your symptoms and anxiety needs treatment.