PERFORMING WITH A KILLER

Creativity, ambition, and vulnerability. For many, the dream of performing on stage and sharing their art with the world is a powerful motivator. Yet, within the thrill of performing lies a hidden killer—mental health struggles. Depression, anxiety, addiction, and burnout are often the shadows behind the spotlight. As artists, you are expected to open up your inner world to your audience, but at what cost to your well-being?

To thrive in this industry, it’s crucial to acknowledge these challenges and develop strategies to protect your mental and emotional health. This is where the inner game of coaching comes in, helping you focus on your internal mindset, resilience, and personal well-being, so you can not only survive but excel in your career.

The Vulnerability of Artists

Musicians are uniquely vulnerable to depression and anxiety. The constant exposure of your deepest thoughts and emotions through your music makes you susceptible to personal criticism, judgment, and public scrutiny. This vulnerability is often magnified by the pressures of fame, performance demands, and the isolation that can follow.

“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.” — William James

The inner game teaches that much of the battle is not external, but within. Depression, anxiety, and self-doubt can feel like insurmountable obstacles, but they are often amplified by the stories we tell ourselves. When you allow negative thoughts or fears to dominate, they can become the killers of creativity, motivation, and joy.

Navigating the Inner Turmoil

For many artists, performing can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, music provides a platform for self-expression; on the other, it can lead to extreme mental strain. Zayn Malik’s struggle with performance anxiety and Kurt Cobain’s tragic end highlight the emotional toll that this career can take. Even the act of stepping on stage can cause intense feelings of vulnerability and fear, transforming what should be a moment of release into a trigger for anxiety.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

As a musician, you must learn to navigate this inner turmoil. The inner game of coaching emphasizes that performance is as much about mental preparation as it is about musical skill. Before stepping onto the stage, your focus should be on calming the internal critic, embracing your vulnerabilities, and cultivating a mindset that prioritizes well-being over perfection.

Seeking Support Before It’s Too Late

The stories of Avicii and Chester Bennington are painful reminders of how hidden mental health struggles can lead to devastating outcomes. Their talent and success masked the internal battles they were fighting, and unfortunately, the pressures of their careers exacerbated their mental health issues.

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” — Friedrich Nietzsche

The inner game philosophy underscores the importance of knowing your “why.” Why do you make music? Why do you perform? When you stay connected to your deeper purpose, you create a foundation that can sustain you through the challenges of the industry. But no artist should walk this path alone. Seeking the support of a coach, therapist, or trusted mentor is essential. These are the people who can help you strengthen your mindset, manage the emotional ups and downs, and find healthy ways to deal with stress.

Balancing the Highs and Lows

Artists often chase the high of performance—a sense of euphoria when everything clicks and the audience connects with your music. But after the lights dim and the applause fades, the lows can hit hard. The emotional crash after a show can lead some artists to turn to drugs, alcohol, or other unhealthy coping mechanisms.

“It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” — Edmund Hillary

Conquering the emotional rollercoaster that comes with performing requires self-awareness and discipline. The inner game of coaching encourages artists to focus not only on their craft but also on their emotional and physical health. Develop habits and routines that support recovery after a show—whether that’s meditation, journaling, or simply spending time with loved ones. Just as you prepare for a performance, you need to prepare for the aftermath.

Cultivating Emotional Resilience

The music industry is not for the faint of heart. It demands resilience, adaptability, and the ability to face rejection and criticism. But emotional resilience doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and even the strongest artists need help developing it. This is where the inner game approach is invaluable—it teaches you how to control your inner world so that the external pressures don’t break you down.

“Resilience is knowing that you are the only one that has the power and the responsibility to pick yourself up.” — Mary Holloway

Resilience is about building mental strength. It’s about recognizing that while you can’t control the opinions of others, the challenges of the industry, or the highs and lows of fame, you can control how you respond. Developing resilience means practicing mindfulness, embracing your vulnerabilities, and creating a strong support system that will help you navigate the inevitable ups and downs.

Performing with a Purpose

As musicians, your performances are meant to inspire, connect, and heal. But you can’t give from an empty cup. To perform with passion and authenticity, you need to nurture your inner world. Focus on your mental and emotional well-being as much as you focus on your music. When you take care of yourself, you not only enhance your performance but also set a powerful example for your audience.

“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” — Carl Jung

Performing with a killer—whether it’s anxiety, depression, or any other mental health struggle—doesn’t have to be your fate. By learning to manage your inner game, seeking the support you need, and prioritizing your health over the demands of the industry, you can take control of your career and perform with purpose, passion, and peace.

Conclusion: A New Approach to Performing

Musicians often battle unseen enemies—whether it’s depression, anxiety, or the pressures of fame. But with the right mindset and support, you can overcome these obstacles. The inner game of coaching helps you master the mental side of performance, enabling you to thrive not only on stage but in every aspect of your life. Remember, your inner world reflects your outer performance. Cultivate resilience, seek support, and perform with a killer mindset—not the kind that destroys you, but the kind that empowers you.

“To be an artist is to believe in life.” — Henry Moore