CLEAR YOUR MIND
Here's my personal mindset checklist that I follow to clear my mind before every audition or recording session.
1. Solitude. I always close the door and spend a few minutes alone with the copy before I record. Most performing artists do this as well, spending time alone to get centered before they take the stage.
2. Breathe. Deep breathing exercises are part of every relaxation routine because they work. Take a yoga class or consult one of the many books available on relaxation techniques.
3. Do a mind scan. After I relax my body, I scan my mind.
If something is troubling me, I use a technique I learned from Dr Keppe, my mentor in Brazil. It's called interiorization. Here's how it works:
When someone bothers us it's often because they remind us of something we don't want to see in ourselves.
Let's say I had a disagreement with my boyfriend. I'm angry because he's always late. I associate his attitude with selfishness. I then take a moment to try to see this same selfish attitude inside myself.
If I'm honest, I'll have to admit that I sometimes share these same attitudes. The more I can do that, the more I'll calm down.
4. Analyze the copy. To increase your chances of winning the audition, you have to give an emotionally rich read that gives the auditor the feeling you intend, and which helps them form a clear movie in their mind.
This can be done by following the four voice acting guideposts we teach in our Voice Over Bootcamp Recording Studio Immersion Experience, and in my Voice Over Step by Step Home Study Starter System.
YOUR ASSIGNMENT ...
Take time to relax and clear your mind before every audition and practice session - and especially before bookings.
We are always more tense than we think we are, so you need to do this every time you get behind the mic.
Enroll in a local yoga class or get some books on stress reduction techniques from the library. Develop your own personal relaxation routine.
Try to identify some things that really irritate you about other people. These are often attitudes you dislike seeing in yourself. The next time someone upsets you examine your conscience for similar attitudes.
ABOUT SUSAN ...
Susan Berkley is a top voice over artist and founder of The Great Voice Company, devoted to teaching great voices around the world how to become successful voice over talent. She is the telephone voice of AT&T and Citi, author of Speak To Influence: How To Unlock The Hidden Power of Your Voice, and a persuasive speaking expert. A frequent media guest, she has been featured on ABC news, CNBC and in the New York Times. Through her Bootcamps, coaching programs and courses, she shares how to experience and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the voice over lifestyle and create a home-based business. For a free CD, 6 Insider Secrets For Getting Started in Voice Over, plus weekly tips and techniques, visit her website below.
By Susan Berkley
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I will keep your checklist close at hand (or, better yet, under one of those hats I wear!)
Many Thanks,
Dan Deslaurier