Ability to Control Nerves, Concentrate and Focus

Understanding ‘Ability to Control Nerves, Concentrate and Focus’

  • Nerves often arise from fear of making mistakes or not meeting expectations. It’s normal and even beneficial to an extent, as it indicates the importance of the performance.

  • The ability to control nerves can significantly affect the quality of a dance performance. It’s about managing the nerves and using them to your advantage.

  • Concentration and focus are critical in a performance as they allow dancers to execute the choreography correctly while expressing the appropriate emotions.

Combating Nervousness

  • Breathing exercises can be effective in calming nerves. This includes deep breathing techniques which slow the heart rate and promote relaxation before stepping onto the stage.

  • Positive self-talk and visualisation can also reassure and help maintain confidence. Repeating positive affirmations and visualising a successful performance can create a positive mindset.

  • Thorough rehearsal minimises the likelihood of making mistakes, reducing anxiety. This includes running through the routine in the venue, if possible, to familiarise with the environment.

Developing Concentration and Focus

  • Removing distractions before the performance helps keep your mind clear. This could be avoiding unnecessary chatter or excitement backstage.

  • Training your concentration like a muscle during rehearsals can help improve focus. This could involve rehearsing with distractions to increase your ability to maintain concentration.

  • Mindfulness and meditation can help improve mental clarity and focus, which can in turn improve performance. It helps train the mind to stay focused on the present moment.

Maintaining Nerve Control, Concentration, and Focus During Performance

  • Focusing on the storyline or emotion of the dance instead of the audience can help maintain performance focus. This helps stay emotionally connected to the dance, keeping the mind from wandering off.

  • Trusting your training and muscle memory can reassure and allow you to concentrate on the expressions and audience engagement rather than worrying about remembering the steps.

  • Remember, minor mistakes are often unnoticed by the audience. Aim to remain focused and composed if they occur, and continue performing with confidence.

Post Performance Reflection and Improvement

  • Reflecting on the performance helps identify triggers of anxiety or moments of distraction. This self-awareness can inform effective strategies for improvement in future performances.

  • Constructive feedback from teachers, peers, or mentors can highlight areas for development in controlling nerves, and improving concentration and focus.

  • Ongoing practice in nerve control and focus development will enhance consistency in delivering high standard performances. It’s part of an ongoing process and gets better with each performance.