It’s a common phenomenon among singers and vocalists to feel like they don’t quite sound the way they want to when they hear their own voice.
This feeling of dissatisfaction with one’s own singing or speaking voice is often referred to as “voice shame,” and it can be incredibly difficult for singers who experience it.
While it may seem impossible to ever get over this insecurity and learn how to love their own voices, there are steps that can be taken in order to make progress on this issue.
We will explore what causes singers to develop feelings of shame around their voices, and discuss some strategies that these individuals can use in order to start loving their unique sounds again.
What Causes Voice Shame?
Voice shame is typically caused by various factors, such as negative messages conveyed to us when we were children or teenagers, a lack of vocal training, or our own internal dialogue.
Messages like “you’re not good enough” or “you can’t sing” are often heard at an early age and may contribute to feelings of shame and insecurity when we sing or speak.
When a singer lacks vocal training, they may find themselves comparing their voice to those who have taken lessons or had more experience in singing. This can lead to an internal dialogue that tells them they are not competent enough to be a successful singer.
Negative experiences with auditioning or performing can also contribute to voice shame. These experiences, especially if they are frequent, can lead a singer to believe that their voice is not worthy of appreciation or validation and therefore they should not be singing in the first place.
All of these factors combine to create an environment where singers may feel ashamed of their own sound and struggle with loving their voices.
How To Overcome Feelings Of Discomfort With Your Voice
The first step in overcoming feelings of discomfort with your voice is to recognize that it is okay to be imperfect. Even the most talented singers and vocalists make mistakes, so don’t be too hard on yourself when you make one.
Instead, focus on all the positive aspects of your singing, such as range, vibrato, and the emotion you’re able to convey through your voice. It can also be helpful to start listening to other singers and vocalists who have similar voices and styles as yourself. This will help you understand how others use their own unique sounds and talents, which in turn can help you appreciate your own voice better.
Developing a positive attitude towards your voice is also key. Look for the things you like about your voice and try to focus on those when you’re singing or speaking. This can be a difficult task, but with time and practice it will become easier. It is important to remind yourself that there is no one “perfect” way to sound and that your unique voice is what makes you special.
Another great tool for singers who are struggling with their own voices is to invest in a good pair of in-ear monitors. This type of device allows you to hear your own voice clearly and without interference from external sounds. In-ear monitors provide a level of clarity that can help you understand the nuances of your singing better and make adjustments when needed.
Finally, it is important to seek help from a professional vocal coach or music therapist if you feel that voice shame is preventing you from enjoying your singing and speaking. Working with someone who specializes in these techniques can be incredibly beneficial and may even provide insight into why you are struggling with loving your own sound.
Strategies For Building Self-Confidence In Your Singing Or Speaking Voice
Self-confidence in your singing or speaking voice can be a challenging process, but it is essential for singers and other vocalists to overcome their feelings of shame and insecurity.
One of the best ways to start building confidence is by recognizing your unique gifts as a singer or speaker. This means acknowledging that you have something special and understanding that your voice is worth celebrating.
Another key strategy for building self-confidence is to practice regularly. This will help develop the skills necessary to improve and become more comfortable with your sound. It can be helpful to work on vocal exercises like breath control and diction in order to increase range and accuracy.
Listening back to recordings of yourself can give insight into how your voice sounds and what adjustments need to be made. It’s also important to find positive support from other singers or speakers. Having a group of people who will encourage you and provide feedback can be extremely beneficial for building self-confidence. You can also look for mentors who have the skills and experience to help you further develop your vocal abilities.
Finally, it is important to take a break from time to time. Constant practice without rest can lead to burnout and feelings of frustration.
Take the time you need to relax, reflect on your progress, and remember why singing or speaking is so important to you in the first place.
By utilizing these strategies, singers and speakers can not only improve their vocal abilities but also build self-confidence in their own unique sound. With patience and dedication, you too can become a confident singer or speaker who loves their own voice.
Key Takeaway
In conclusion, building self-confidence in your singing or speaking voice can be a challenging process.
However, with commitment and the right strategies such as recognizing your unique gifts, practicing regularly and seeking positive support from other singers or speakers, you too can become a confident singer or speaker who loves their own voice.
With patience and dedication to these principles, you will soon find yourself embracing the beauty of your own individual sound.
In the end, it always important to remember that liking your voice is another aspect of accepting yourself.
