Finding the confidence to stand up in front of others can be daunting, whether that’s to do a class presentation, or read out your poetry. But why are we so scared, and how can we change that fear into confidence?
I’ve never been one to enjoy class presentations, always breaking into fits of giggles as soon as I make eye-contact with my friend across the room. This only changed when I started going to open mics and sharing my own words with people that, while I didn’t really know them that well, had the same passions as me.
These are some tips to help you overcome this challenge, coming from someone who has only got over it after beginning to host their own open mics:
- Start by going to an open mic! Placing yourself in that environment is instantly going to give you a confidence boost, as you’re able to see everyone else share their words. Chances are, it’ll make you want to, and probably regret not bringing your poetry notebook.
- If that’s not the case, however, and you still don’t feel comfortable, I encourage you to find someone to read out the poetry on your behalf. Being able to witness the audience’s reaction to your poem (which I have no doubt will be positive – open mics are the best!) will help you realise that there’s nothing to be scared of, and maybe push you to read out your own work.
- Maybe, though, before you take the leap to read out your own writing, you want to focus on simply performing. For this, I suggest reading out one of your favourite poems – giving the person credit, of course – in order to get used to being stood in front of people. This allows you to not only develop confidence, but also practice your pacing when performing.
- After this, the natural progression is reading out your own work. Being fully confident will take time, so maybe start with some smaller pieces and work your way towards the longer poems.
Remember, practice makes perfect! And please don’t ever stop writing, even if you don’t feel comfortable sharing your work. Open mics are a place to connect with others, so chances are you’ll even make some new friends.
I also must mention that there is always such an overwhelming feeling of respect at each and every open mic I’ve been to. Everyone in the audience is likely thinking the exact same thoughts of self-consciousness and fear.
But, being given the opportunity to hear other people’s words is such a privilege that I’ll never be able to get over, and, hopefully, this little blog has helped one of you find your voice. The world will be the better for hearing it.
Photo credit: Mansfield District Council Cultural Services