I’m attending a three-day workshop this weekend and I’m feeling nervous.
It’s a common feeling when stepping into the unknown. But I’ve been to countless workshops before — so what’s going on?
Trying something new can be scary, and being the only man in a group of 20+ women already makes me the odd one out.
Like most people, I have a few worries:
- Will the other participants like me?
- Will I be good enough to take part fully?
- What if I can’t do something that’s asked of me — won’t I be a failure?
- What if I let the others down?
- Will the others be better and more experienced than me?
- What if I make a fool of myself?
- Will I feel safe?
This all sounds pretty nerve-wracking — so why am I putting myself through it?
Basically, I want to learn and develop, to have fun, and to try new things.
Any time we stretch ourselves like this, we inevitably feel uncomfortable.
Whether it’s joining a new choir, trying singing for the first time, or attending a workshop, we’re bound to feel a little wobbly.
But deep down I am trusting the process. I trust the workshop leader and I’ve been to enough workshops to know I’ll feel less nervous as the weekend goes on.
As my mother always says: “You’ll enjoy it when you get there”. Even though right now, I’m feeling anxious before I’ve even arrived!
In the end, a bit of nervousness just comes with trying something new. It usually fades once we’re actually there. So if you’re tempted to try something but feel a bit wobbly, go for it anyway — you might enjoy it far more than you expect.
further reading
You might find these other posts of interest too:
Trust me – you know it makes sense
You can’t avoid feelings of apprehension at the start of a singing workshop
When you start singing for the first time, be prepared to fail. A lot.
It’s good to fail as a singer (and you should do it more often)
Moving outside your comfort zone – comfortably
Singing together is about feeling safe, supported and valued
Chris Rowbury
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