book.chapter Artist's mental approach

In the realm of acting and public speaking, individuals are acutely aware that success does not come from a mere casual attempt. It requires a deep-seated commitment to excellence, underpinned by a trio of fundamental psychological pillars that serve as the bedrock for outstanding performances. The initial step towards distinguishing oneself as a compelling presenter lies in the discovery of one's unique voice. The absence of authenticity often renders presentations and performances lackluster, primarily because the speaker fails to convey their genuine voice and conviction in their message. Unearthing one's voice entails shedding the constraints of self-doubt and freely expressing one's core beliefs and values. It involves selecting roles that resonate with one's true self and presenting content that aligns with one's convictions rather than conforming to disingenuous narratives. The essence of finding your voice and embracing authenticity boils down to a pivotal inquiry: which roles do you currently embody that you wish to continue, and which do you intend to relinquish? By concentrating on excelling in the roles you choose and openly acknowledging your vulnerabilities, you enhance your approachability and credibility. Authenticity plays a crucial role in presentations; by harnessing your genuine and natural voice, you exude authenticity, thereby captivating your audience. The second prerequisite for delivering an exceptional presentation or performance revolves around the clarification of the desired role from the outset. It is imperative to introspect and determine whether you aim to be perceived as a "cheerleader" or a "hands-on dictator" dictating the necessary actions, a "nice guy/gal" or a "drill sergeant," or perhaps as a "psychiatrist" rather than an "analyst." Understanding the specific role you aspire to fulfill enables you to highlight certain aspects of your personality and life story while downplaying others. It also aids in deciding whether to assume a leading or supporting role. Furthermore, recognizing the role you wish to play equips you with foresight regarding the performance required to fulfill that role, allowing for more effective preparation. This approach underscores the notion that personal triumphs pave the way for public victories. As Michael Port eloquently states, "When you're playing the right roles, you are persuasive in those roles because they are authentic to you. And amplifying the most positive, powerful, and compelling parts of your personality really is quite fun." Public speaking is often marred by two pervasive fears. To overcome these fears and silence critics, one must adopt a strategic approach. The decision between seeking results or approval in your presentation or performance is crucial. Disregarding critics, including the internal voice of doubt, and focusing on delivering your best work, prioritizing the quality of your output and the positive impact it generates over seeking applause or accolades, leads to greater satisfaction and more effective presentations. Jerry Seinfeld humorously highlights the common fear of public speaking, noting, "According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death... Does that sound right? This means... if you go to a funeral, you’re better off in the casket than doing the eulogy." In summary, the journey to becoming an exceptional presenter or performer is multifaceted, requiring the discovery of one's authentic voice, the identification of the desired role, and the courage to prioritize results over approval. By embracing authenticity, understanding the role you wish to play, and focusing on the quality of your work, you can transcend the fears associated with public speaking and deliver presentations that resonate deeply with your audience.