How to build performance confidence through artistic identity
It’s not a fear problem. it’s a confidence problem.
Fear is part of life. It keeps us alert, drives us to prepare, and even helps us perform under pressure. But one of the most common misconceptions in performance circles is the idea that true confidence comes from eliminating fear altogether.
Why Fear Isn’t the Enemy
Many performers believe that stage confidence means no longer being afraid. But confidence isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the belief that you can still show up and shine despite the fear.
So if fear will always be there (at least a little), what’s the alternative?
You build resilience. You build confidence. You build belief in yourself.
Confidence Comes From your Identity
This kind of grounded confidence doesn’t appear out of thin air. It starts with knowing who you are as an artist, as a performer, and as a person. From THERE, you can begin to take identity-aligned action that will build an authentic self-confidence rather than a “fake-it-til-you-make-it” confidence.
Many creatives have an intuitive sense of what they enjoy or what they’re good at. But they’ve never taken the time to put language around that. And when your identity isn’t clearly defined, you become more vulnerable to outside opinions, criticism, and comparison.
In an industry full of rejection, instability, and constant evaluation, a strong artistic identity becomes your anchor during moments of self-doubt. It keeps you motivated throughout setbacks or pitfalls.
How to Define Your Artistic Identity
Get curious—not critical—about what makes you you. There are lots of ways to approach identity work but to start, let’s keep it simple.
Ask yourself these four questions:
1. What do I do well?
2. What do I naturally gravitate toward?
3. What are the aspects of performing that I truly love?
4. If money, fame, and public opinion didn’t matter, how would I spend my time and what would be important to me?
These questions help you tune into your values, strengths, and creative preferences—so that you’re not performing for approval, but from alignment. This is a KEY ingredient of my coaching method.
Perform From a Place of Strength
When you understand and embrace your artistic identity, you show up differently.
You stop trying to be everything to everyone.
You stop chasing validation.
You start crafting performances that reflect your values, highlight your strengths, and showcase your unique voice.
And that’s where true performance confidence comes from—not perfection, but authenticity.
Fear might still show up when you step on stage, but it doesn’t have to lead. When you’re anchored in who you are, confidence becomes something you carry with you, not something you have to earn.
So take the time to define your identity. Get clear on what you love, what you do well, and what really matters to you. Confidence will follow.