3 Surprising Mistakes That Make Performance Anxiety Worse—and What to Do Instead

Most people think nerves mean they lack confidence—but the real problem is how we relate to anxiety when the spotlight’s on. This post unpacks three common mistakes that keep performance anxiety in control—and shows how mindful acceptance offers a proven, liberating way forward.

Whether you’re speaking, performing, or just trying to show up fully, you’ll learn how to stop fighting fear and start finding flow.

The Yips: Steve Sax Disease

The yips refers to “extreme nervousness causing a golfer to miss easy putts.” More broadly applied, such sports-based performance anxiety can also lead to a pitcher making wild throws, a quarterback sailing the the ball, and the like. Pirates pitcher Steve Blass can certainly speak to the problem. He suffered such a severe case of the yips in the 1970s …

What Shohei Ohtani’s Stage Fright Can Teach Performers About Handling Pressure

Even elite performers experience stage fright—just ask Shohei Ohtani. Before stepping up to bat at Tokyo Dome, he admitted feeling nervous under the intense, silent focus of 42,000 fans. This pressure isn’t unique to athletes—musicians, actors, and dancers face the same overwhelming scrutiny on stage. Even jazz musicians at Tokyo’s Blue Note have been spooked by Japan’s ultra-focused, silent audiences. So how do top performers handle it? Learn proven techniques to manage nerves, shift focus, and turn pressure into peak performance—just like Ohtani. 🎭🎶⚾ #StageFright #PerformanceAnxiety #ThrivingUnderPressure

What Shohei Ohtani’s Stage Fright Can Teach Us About Public Speaking Anxiety

Even Shohei Ohtani gets stage fright—so what does that mean for the rest of us? Before stepping up to bat at Tokyo Dome, Ohtani admitted to feeling nervous under the intense, silent focus of 42,000 fans. This kind of pressure isn’t just for athletes—it affects public speakers, performers, and even jazz musicians at Tokyo’s Blue Note, where audiences listen in complete silence. Learn how to overcome performance anxiety, channel nerves into confidence, and thrive under pressure—just like Ohtani.
🎤⚾ #StageFright #PublicSpeaking #PerformanceAnxiety

Speech Fright Science: What Happens in the Brain?

Stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, is a common experience. Even seasoned performers can feel it. This post will explain the science behind stage fright, focusing on what happens in the brain. Understanding these processes can help us better manage and support those who face this challenge. What Is Stage Fright? Stage fright is the intense fear or anxiety …

History of Stage Fright in the Performing Arts

Stage fright—also known as performance anxiety—has been part of the performing arts for ages. Even seasoned actors, musicians, and public speakers can experience it. This phenomenon causes intense fear and nervousness before or during a performance. Here, we explore the history of stage fright, notable instances, and its impact on performing arts. Ancient Beginnings: Stage Fright in Ancient Greece and …