7 Steps to Overcome Stage Fright and Beat Performance Anxiety

From Vanessa Van Edwards, Lead Investigator at the Science of People: Do you shudder at the thought of having to perform in front of a group of people? Whether you are responsible for giving a report at a meeting, a toast at a wedding, or delivering a keynote talk to a large audience, putting yourself out there in front of others can be terrifying. Given this, it’s no wonder that Consumer Reports estimates that forty percent of adults suffer from stage fright and performance anxiety. I love studying the hidden forces that drive us and, unfortunately, nerves, anxiety and fear are some of the negative forces that can hold us back. These can rear their ugly heads especially right before big moments. This is called stage fright or performance anxiety and it can happen before or during any appearance in front of an audience.