It has been suggested that stage fright may be musicians’ greatest psychological
stressor. This study aims to develop various mental and physical practices that
form an easy-to-use “manual” for musicians with stage fright by using stick figures
and concise, short, instructive texts. The recommended practices were developed
based on discussions between expert researchers working with musicians’ stage
fright. The manual was tested on a musician to manage unpleasant thoughts,
emotions, and physical sensations caused by stage fright. Eighteen steps, rooted
in self-awareness and mindfulness, gave the musician a tool to embrace stage
fright as a steppingstone to greater self-expression and artistry. The manual with
the 18 stick figures will be further evaluated and tested in a controlled bigger
sample. The discussions revealed that by observing and accepting one’s feelings
without judgment and catastrophizing, it is possible to learn to understand the
needs of the body and to respond compassionately. A manual of 18 easy-to-use
practical strategies could be one way to deal with stage fright.
2025. Vol. 16, article id 1570280