Monday, October 25, 2010

Guitarist Affirmations (BEFORE PRACTICES AND GIGS)!

Mind Over Matter: A Handbook for Musicians to help you overcome Performance Anxiety


THE INTRO: Affirmations are a way to get your brain working. They're expressions of wishes that you want to be realities. They're your own personal "cheerleader" when you have trouble being that on your own. They help formulate exactly what it is you need to become. They are beliefs that will color your personal and professional future. And we need to give time to develop that part of our lives. 

THE WHY: When you say these to yourself, keep in mind that they have to be loud enough so you can hear them. And it needs to be loud enough so that your "core self" can hear it; you can say something dozens of times, again and again - but until you actually know and believe your heart, these won't help.  You don't have to scream to the point where you "lose your voice", but you DO, have to feel these 100%  

THE HOW: They can be said just audible enough for you to hear them or if you're off stage or not up yet, (maybe you're sitting in the audience at an open mic night) others won't think you are crazy for saying these. Really, it's mainly to get that voice in your mind "happy". You alone, are in charge of pepping this leader up. When it comes down to it, YOU are your own hero. Ultimately, that's what the majority of people long for.

DIVING DEEPER: So your inner self-talk will be thee, way to communicate inside your head. As your brain and mind is working - will be what causes you to doubt yourself before, during or after a performance. This is so important that you allow yourself enough time before the gig to prepare you mind.

THE WHERE: And what it really comes down to a lot of times, is showing up to your gig early. You'll gain an advantage over others that aren't so familiar with the exact circumstances and environment. Not that it's dog eat dog, but you don't want to "disqualify" yourself in any way before you even get on stage. Getting there early will be your way to gain peace and calmness. This will help you to network effectively and efficiently with other musicians. Also, this will keep your mind off of that performance anxiety that almost everyone has. And if you don't drink like me, you'll have to face this someway or somehow. Other musicians will be concentrating on trying to get settled at the gig, arriving like a strong wind, breezing through the doorway entrance! 



HERE ARE YOUR AFFIRMATIONS:

I learn music effortlessly and easily.

My Cover songs inspire people to connect to the fondest memories from their past.

I can create new songs that no has ever heard but many will once i sing them.

I record soundtracks to people's lives.

I am a confident, competent guitarist.

I love everything about music.

When a new song comes on the radio that i don't care for too much, i listen to it for the hook to "see it through"

People that don't play yet, look up to me.

I must teach those that need music education.

I am a Music Mentor.

I can teach someone a small concept that I've learned on guitar.

My right hand's rhythm and technique are who i am as a guitarist.

They know that I can play dozens of songs perfectly - in my own style.

I love how the guitar helps me to spread love to other people.   
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