3 Ways to Move Past Your Fear

When I was a sophomore in high school I was cast in the lead role of Neil Simon’s Fools, our Spring play. This was my first lead role and I didn’t want to disappoint anyone.

During the weeks of rehearsal, I worked hard to memorize the lines and bring the character of Leon Tolchinsky to life. But I had a secret fear that I never admitted to anyone.

I was absolutely terrified of forgetting my lines.

The most important thing an actor can do is to know his lines. Dialogue is like a chain because every line depends on the one that came before. When a link is missing, it can send the whole scene into chaos.

Instead of enjoying the experience, I was motivated by the fear of appearing inept and stupid. I  didn’t want others to think badly of me.

The fear of failing isn’t limited to high school plays. Anyone who makes something for others to enjoy runs the risk of disappointing others. Whether you’re a writer, singer, teacher, musician, or do other creative, you know the paralyzing fear of failure.

But it doesn’t have to stay that way. In my life as an artist and creative person, I have found three helpful actions that help eliminate fear.

1. Focus on serving the audience. When you’re on stage (whether figuratively or literally), you naturally think about yourself. How do I look? How do I sound? What do people think of me?

Instead of thinking about yourself, focus on how you can create an enjoyable experience for your audience. Think about how much fun they will have experiencing your art. Figure out what they need and find a way to provide it. Ask your audience how you can serve them more effectively. (I recently did this through an audience survey, and you can find the results here.)

When you focus on serving others, you don’t have time to worry about how you look or what others will think of you.

2. Make it your goal to have fun. Your audience shouldn’t be the only ones having fun! You should enjoy the process as well. If you aren’t having a blast doing what you do, are you doing the right things in the first place?

Let’s be honest. Creating things is hard work. Whether it’s a sermon, blog post, painting, song, or podcast, it’s not easy. But you must approach your art with the attitude that even if no one else enjoys it, you are going to have a great time creating it. Ironically, the more fun you have, the more fun your audience will have.

3. Realize that most people are only giving you part of their attention. When you’re on stage and everyone is staring at you, it seems like they will notice every little move you make. After all, their complete attention is focused on you, right?

Wrong.

Here’s a little secret of performing: people may look like they’re paying attention, but most of the time their attention is only partially on you. Chances are good that they’re also thinking about lunch, their kids, a work project that’s due, unanswered emails, home repairs, or a million other things.

This isn’t bad, it’s just human nature. After many years of worship leading, preaching and college teaching, I can tell you that when you’re on stage, most people are only giving you part of their attention. So if you make a mistake, many people will not even notice it. And if they do, they are usually pretty forgiving.

Just this past Sunday I was playing drums at church, and at one point I lost control of a drum stick and sent it flying in the drum cage. I missed a couple of beats and thought to myself, “Wow, that was a complete fail. I just looked really stupid.” But no said anything or seemed to notice. Or if they did, it wasn’t important enough to mention.

Remember these three guidelines, and they will help you conquer the fear of failure that holds you back and keeps you from performing at your peak.

Question: How do you deal with the fear of failure? What tips would you give others to conquer fear?