The definition of fear is “an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat”.
According to Susan Krauss Whitbourne, Ph.D., currently a professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, “In many situations, it is rational and prudent to fear another person. For example, if someone physically threatens you, the best response is to get away from that person as soon as possible. However, few of our interpersonal dealings involve such dire threats. It’s more likely that you would fear those who may cause you to lose your job, relationships, self-esteem, or something else of high emotional value.” Yet negative impacts of fear can include fear “of all authority based on childhood memories”, “increased anxiety”, “decline in productivity”, and “relationship setbacks”.
If you have ever experienced fear you know what impact it has on something as simple as your breath for example which we all know is vital to optimal vocal production. But, let’s just stop there. There is nothing to fear about singing, not one thing. Imagine singing and performing with no fear or doubt whatsoever. Imagine the joy and freedom you can experience. Your reality is a direct reflection of your belief system. What are you focusing on before, during and after you sing/perform? That which you focus on, you become. It is a law of energy. When you have fear you are literally asking for fear to manifest. When you are positive and focused on sharing your talents, your gifts, YOU, you are creating something that can only be positive no matter what others may think or say.
Now, that said, we believe in having ‘butterflies’ which is 1) merely an expression of your excitement over what you are about to do, 2) an affirmation of the fact that you have tremendous respect for the music, composer, collaborators and yourself and your desire is to do your very best. 3) joy for the opportunity to create something wonderful!
Let those three things override the “F” word and transform it into a much better “F” word we call FAITH. Have faith in yourself. Having faith and a belief in that feeling or invisible energy that something positive will happen for your greatest good is important for you to maintain throughout your career. Something makes you successful. What is it? You can control only so much exteriorly. Therefore, to have faith in yourself and faith in the process means you trust things will happen as they should. No. Not in a naïve way…but in an informed and pro-active way. Faith is no more than wisdom in action.
Here is a fun analogy. Think of your life as a movie. What channel are you watching? Is it a horror movie? If so, change the channel! Watch what makes you feel happy, successful, motivated, and loved. You are starring in your own movie. Don’t fear success! It is actually yours’ to achieve. What clears your mind of negative thought patterns or allows you to change your channel? You take a shower to clean your physical body. What kind of shower do you take for your mind? Maybe go for a run or long walk in nature. Some people cook. Some meditate, pray or do yoga. Whatever you can do to clean the mind and set your channel to something that brings you joy, do it! Whatever we allow to penetrate our minds will ultimately affect our ability to be successful. Remember that what you focus on you become. Will you experience challenges? Sure! What is a challenge – it is only a blessing in disguise, an opportunity to learn and be better. Since we create our reality – a challenge is only a challenge based on how we perceive it. Be bold, take chances, be creative and have fun!
What is your channel-o-choice? Whatever it is, don’t be boring! Even better – Have no fear! You got this! SHINE!
