Overcome your fear of being seen and heard.
What I learned about voice confidence from a 10 year old singer
I mostly work with teens and adults in my voice coaching studio but last summer I spent two weeks with kids, coaching at youth singing and song-writing camps. There was much learning, and I’m not just talking about the kids – daily reminders that have had me thinking 10 yr old voice mentors are actually a thing!
As an outside observer, I witnessed some extremely powerful behaviours as these kids worked through their own limiting beliefs about their voices, song-writing and social skills; and I can’t help but wonder if we adults, could take some of their empowered wisdom to hold for ourselves…
When asked what they’ve learned about themselves by showing up to sing and song-write with their peers; This is what they said…
“I realized I’m a lot more confident than I thought.”
“My voice is the power inside of me.”
“I am a shy person, but showing up here has made me feel like I can open up to the people around me”
“ I realize I can believe in myself”
“I like expressing myself when I sing”
“I’m more creative than I thought I was”
“I have a beautiful voice”
“I can believe people when they tell me I’m a good singer”
“I feel important”
… AND WE THOUGHT IT WAS “JUST SINGING CAMP!”
I’m sharing these beautiful quotes because I see a parallel in the work these kids have done with the work we all do or want to do when it comes to speaking and singing with empowered purpose.
No matter our age, limiting beliefs can steal our truth from us ~ and no matter our age, we can reframe those beliefs into something more positive progressive.
Here’s how to overcome your fear of being seen and heard (according to a 10 year old)…
When other people start singing, join in.
Clap loudly, when your friends are singing Karaoke.
Take breaks when you need them; if you need one before it is scheduled, just ask.
When you see someone that needs encouragement, pat them on the back and say “You can do it!”
Bravery and courage are the path to confidence. Showing up, even when you don’t know what to expect is better than not showing up at all!
Notice the little things; speak up when you know something is wrong.
If you don’t understand, ask for help.
Play is the highest form of research, and you will learn SO much about your friends when you have fun!
If you have a fear of being seen or heard, you aren’t alone. But take it from the 10 year old mentors ~ all you have to do is show up.
If you liked this info, Check out the post on How to Love Your Voice and Sing With Confidence HERE.
“Sing”cerely,
Elise
