I Tried Multiple Techniques to Overcome Performance Anxiety, Here’s What Happened

If performance anxiety is holding you back from enjoying singing in public, this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll discover what truly works to calm your nerves, build confidence, and sing with freedom. No more shaky hands, trembling voice, or freezing on stage.

Why Performance Anxiety Isn’t a Technique Problem

Hi, my name is Maggie, founder of the Singing Insiders, where I help passionate singers become the best versions of themselves through singing. In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to overcome performance anxiety.
One of the biggest mistakes beginner singers make is relying solely on vocal technique while completely ignoring nervous system regulation. Technique matters, but it’s not enough on its own. If your body feels unsafe, no amount of perfect technique will stop the panic.

The Trap of Pushing Yourself Into the Panic Zone

Another common mistake is forcing yourself to “just do it more,” believing that repeated exposure will automatically reduce anxiety. But if every experience throws you straight into panic mode, you’re reinforcing the belief that performing is dangerous. Trained singers understand that nerves are not a sign of failure—they’re a signal that new tools are needed.

What Trained Singers Do Differently

Trained singers don’t fight their nerves. They work with them. They use tools to regulate their nervous system before reaching panic mode, allowing confidence to come online naturally. That’s the world I want to guide you toward—the world where singing feels safe, grounded, and enjoyable.

My Five Favorite Tools to Overcome Performance Anxiety

In this episode, I share five tools that have been absolute game changers for me. Think of them like trying on jackets in a store—some will fit perfectly, others won’t, and that’s okay. The goal is discovering what works for you.

Tool 1 — Affirmations You Actually Believe

Affirmations only work if your brain accepts them as true. Telling yourself “I’m an amazing singer” won’t help if you don’t believe it. Instead, create affirmations that feel realistic and supportive, like “I’m doing my best, and that is enough.” When affirmations come from within, your nervous system listens.

Tool 2 — Breath Work to Regulate Your Nervous System

Breath work helps signal safety to your brain through your body. Techniques like box breathing and heart coherence are powerful tools for calming anxiety. By slowing and lengthening the breath—especially the exhale—you guide your nervous system out of fight, flight, or freeze and back into balance.

Tool 3 — Visualization and Mental Rehearsal

Mental rehearsal is widely used by athletes, and it’s just as powerful for singers. Your brain doesn’t know the difference between imagination and reality. When you visualize a performance going well, you create a sense of familiarity and safety. When the real moment arrives, your brain recognizes it and relaxes.

Tool 4 — Spending Time in Your Growth Zone

Instead of jumping from your comfort zone straight into panic, focus on your growth zone—the space in between. The more time you spend there, the more it expands. What once felt terrifying becomes manageable, then comfortable. This gradual exposure approach is one of the most sustainable ways to build confidence.

Tool 5 — Naming and Understanding Your Inner Critic

Your inner critic isn’t you—it’s a protective voice trying to keep you safe. Naming it creates distance and awareness. Once you recognize those thoughts as clouds passing by, you can choose whether to engage with them or let them go. Awareness is the first step toward freedom.

Why Singing Requires a Holistic Approach

This episode shows that singing isn’t just about vocal technique. Yes, technique matters—but so does nervous system regulation, confidence, and authentic expression. True growth happens when all these elements work together. That’s why a holistic approach to vocal development is essential.

Ready to Go Deeper With the Vocal Freedom Method?

If this episode resonated with you and you’re ready to take the next step, I invite you to join my free training on the Vocal Freedom Method. In this training, we dive into both vocal technique and the inner work needed to sing with confidence and ease.
👉 Register for the free training here:
https://www.singinginsiders.com/vfm-training-opt-in 

Thank you so much for spending this time with me. I can’t wait to continue this journey together and help you sing with freedom, confidence, and joy.

👀  Want to master the vocal techniques that make singing easier?

Get free access to the Vocal Technique Backpack training, a complete training on the core techniques every  singer needs to sing with confidence, control, and consistency.

Click here to access the free Vocal Technique training!