What's holding you back Part 1 - FEAR

Fear shows up in every part of our lives. It is part of being human. There are moments where fear protects us, moments where it helps us act, and moments where it keeps us from stepping into who we could be. Singing in front of others is one of those areas where the fear feels real even though there is no actual danger. Your heart races. Your breath gets shallow. Your hands shake. You feel exposed.

The good news is this. That reaction is normal. Every singer experiences it. The difference between singers who stay stuck and singers who grow is not talent. It is how they respond to that feeling.

What I’ve learned over the years, both in myself and in my students, is that confidence is built through exposure. Not forceful exposure. Not throwing yourself into panic. Just regular, consistent, safe practice performing in front of another person. When you sing in front of someone who understands the process and cares about your growth, the fear loses its edge. Your body stops ringing the alarm bell and starts to adapt. The sensation changes from threat to energy you can work with.

I’ve seen students go from “I can’t sing in front of anyone” to “I actually feel good performing now” in a matter of weeks. Not because the nerves disappeared, but because they learned how to navigate them. They learned how to interpret what their body was doing. They learned that nothing bad happens when they share their voice. In time, the shaking fades. The breathing steadies. Confidence grows because the mind finally has evidence that it is safe.

This is one of the biggest benefits of vocal lessons. You get regular experience singing in front of someone who knows what they’re listening for and can guide you without judgment. You develop skill and confidence at the same time. The more you show up, the stronger and more natural your voice becomes.

If you’re ready to move past the fear and grow into the singer you want to be, I’m here to help you take that next step. Your voice has more potential than you realize. Let’s unlock it together.

— Johnny Ray