Opinion - TwoSet is a Model for Overcoming Performance Anxiety

Two set

- Playing badly (on purpose) - helps overcome fear of playing badly!

- Putting themselves in situations doomed to fail (like playing the violin left handed) and thus taking the teeth out of fear of failure in front of others

- Identity goes beyond ‘violinist’ - creatives (content creators), inspirational speakers, teachers, service to others, entrepreneurs, promoters of classical music and making it accessible to everyone.

- Gamifying

- Humour - It can’t be serious all the time, the path should be fun!

- Not taking ‘failure’ too seriously

- Not taking themselves too seriously

- Not taking a bad experience too seriously (getting shot down by harsh teachers)

- Connecting with others over shared experiences (getting shot down by harsh teachers!)

- Forging their own path, MANY paths!

- Not concerned about ‘gatekeepers’ determining their careers

- Doing it together – each other

- Doing it together – Fans

- Making commitments to their community

- Making commitments to themselves (auditioning for Curtis, finding time to practice at lunch breaks during travel)

- Environment conducive to practicing (yes, I think that Merch DOES help!) Are you really going to put on your violin shirt and NOT at least think about practicing J

- They’re about the journey (practice. Practice. Practice!)

- They find the positives

We get to share their triumphs, laughs, commiserate in disappointments or challenges, and then – let it all go, move on to the next idea, take the next step, meet the next person or commitment.

Our experiences don’t define us – we take them and react or interpret or find meaning – it’s up to us to find meaning and respond in ways that are kind, patient, and connect us to others.