Posted by Brian C. on July 26, 2000 at 23:46:25:
In Reply to: More than dying?!!! Sarnoff should take some of his own vodka. It worked for me! nt posted by Tiggy on July 26, 2000 at 17:45:44:
I did a lot of work on this as an issue several years ago. It is possible to learn more about performance anticipation anxiety
and master it if one wants to. Anxiety is a body "warning light." It is helpful to learn exactly what system is sending the warning,
That helps lend perspective. I think that all "solutions" involve desensitization and strategy development (how to cope.)
Example. embarassment, loss of love, loss of self esteem, loss of control, etc., etc., The "why." Next comes strategies to offset
the antcipated outcome, i.e. preparation, preparation, preparation. One can be more spontaneous once they arrive at a
competence level. This is called Mastery. Not Mastery of fear/anxiety. Mastery of subject and preparation.
Extroverts think in the outside world. Introverts think in the inside world. Speaking/performing happens in the outside world.
It is only natural for challenges to exist. Accept that. Work on it. take baby steps with HELP, Do not expect to become Dale
Carnegie unless you are really motivated.
LEARN HOW TO BREATHE WHILE PERFORMING ( hyperventilation results from tense rib muscles; that causes 'fainting.")
Learn that even people like Johnny Carson after 25= years on TV, still had occasional 'Flop Sweats." (bathed in perspiration.)
Movie actors frequently have to change clothes to complete sceens.
I could sculpt or paint comfortably before an audience. I can speak on a very familiar subject. I can read scripture at church.
I have trouble with extemporaneous speeches. Guess what. I am not very good at doing it. I can and have, but why bother.
I actually changed careers when I admitted to myself that I as better at other "things" and let the extraverts and the determined
have the area all to the selves. What a relief.
Moral: Work on it, if you want/need to. Alternatively, accept your gifts and limitations; but focus on using your gifts. That is
self esteem. (Alcohol and drugs are a dead end.)