S2 Episode 8: Crises of Confidence

Although we don't care to admit it, almost all artists experience crises of confidence. From panicking during the final minutes before you go on stage, to experiencing a few weeks feeling slightly under the weather, crises of confidence can affect us in many different ways. This week Alex and Helen share strategies and techniques they've used in the past to help battle their crises of confidence.

For the 'in the moment' Crisis of Confidence:

1. Practice mindfulness backstage: notice your feelings, acknowledge them, do not judge them and try, if you can, to allow them to pass.
2. Practice mindfulness on stage and use it to your advantage: if you become aware that your left arm and hand are unnecessarily tense, make the conscious decision to relax them.
3. Try the 'Zooming' technique, alternating your focus between external and internal stimuli. Use this technique to cultivate mental focus and clarity before going on stage.
4. To encourage confidence, try embodying the characteristics of a performer you admire. (We're not recommending this is something you regularly do in performance, but if you're feeling highly concerned in the hours leading up to a concert this technique can help cultivate a sense of power and confidence that can be highly beneficial.)

For the 'long-term' Crisis of Confidence:

1. Baby steps: try not to push yourself and set manageable goals. Expecting too much of yourself when feeling underconfident can be the catalyst for a downward spiral.  
2. Take a break. Go to a concert, visit an exhibition, read a book, or practice other completely unrelated repertoire. Feed your brain in other ways in order to give yourself some breathing space and perspective. 
3. Go with what you know. Trust your technique and what you have been taught.
4. Lean on your people. Talk to those who you trust and who know you best as an artist, seek out their support and advice.
5. Most importantly, remember that this mindset is a product of feelings and in time, all feelings pass.

Edited and produced by Daisy Grant Productions.

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