Performance pressure can be both a motivating force and a debilitating hurdle for performers.
Performers in big moments, high-level competitions, and critical performances often grapple with the daunting weight of expectations.
Everyone feels the pressure at times. No one can avoid it. The question is: Do you make pressure a friend or a foe?
While a certain level of pressure can enhance focus and energy, excessive pressure can hinder execution by elevating anxiety, doubt, and tension.
When facing high-pressure situations, the body undergoes a stress response that can impair cognitive function, destabilize coordination, and make execution mechanical and imprecise.
Fortunately, there are positive effects produced by pressure as well. When harnessed correctly, pressure produces an increase in heart rate and adrenaline that can enhance awareness, making performers feel alert and energetic.
The key is for performers to transform nervousness into excitement.
Framing the physiological response to pressure as a positive can make a world of difference in how your mind and body react.
When sweaty palms, elevated heart rate, and nervous energy are mindfully interpreted as excitement, this shift in thinking enhances focus and execution.
This reframing is often helped along by positive self-talk, mental imagery of success, and rehearsal. Equally important to this reframing is a positive view as to why the pressure exists to begin with.
Most top performers have reached an important milestone others only dream of. They are on stage or engaged in serious competition or performing for others precisely because they have achieved a high level of competence and skill.
When nothing is on the line, pressure doesn’t make much of an impact. Pressure exists when there is something at stake. And the reason so much is on the line is because you have earned your way to this performance.
Pressure is a privilege. It exists only for those with the skills sharp enough to enter the arena.
You got yourself here. You are good enough to perform and compete. Reminding yourself of that fact assists in the transformation of nerves to energy and tension to excitement.
Believing the pressure you feel is a compliment to all the hard work that led to your current success makes the performance one of exhilaration, not anxiety.
Think about the honor of performing. Let the privilege of pressure wash over you.
Are you excited to display your skills? You should be. You’ve earned it.
