Notes from the “Perfomance Anxiety Workshop” led by John Hipple, Ph.D. He’s a nice guy but he’s one of those people who makes WAY too much eye contact than is comfortable. Even so, I’m determined not to look away when he fixes those eyes on me.

“Anxiety means you give a damn.” If you didn’t care, you wouldn’t be anxious, right?

Preparation is the best proof against anxiety. Know the music. Practice.

“Straws that break the camel’s back.” Many people come under stress from many sources at once (job, family, money, etc.), and performing is often the one that upsets the balance. Examine the stressors in your life; can you remove a few of them? Take away a few straws and the camel can do its job.

Support is good. Find someone to talk to about your fear. Get it out. You cannot carry it alone.

Have realistic expectations. The chances of someone getting a record deal at SXSW are tiny; the chances of getting good exposure and meeting new people are greater. Know what you want to accomplish.

Focus on the parts of the performance you’re pleased with, not the mistakes. Practice relaxing.

This panel was followed by a brief relaxation excercise, where we all sat calmly with our eyes closed, focused on breathing and trying to find our “special place.” As soon as he said those words, I became anxious, because I thought maybe I was the only one in the room participating in this stupid excercise. Okay, no so much with the meditation next time.

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