Weekly Insights #3
The Mental Game of Voice: Practice with Purpose (Part II)
Last week, we explored the profound impact that mental awareness can have on voice training, a lesson I learned from my mentor, Margaret Harshaw. She taught me that singing—and indeed, any form of voice work—is 95% mental. This concept shifted my focus from simply mastering techniques to understanding the importance of being mentally present and making conscious decisions in the moment.
But how do we integrate this mental awareness with the practical techniques we’ve spent so much time mastering? This is where the real work begins—practicing with purpose, being fully present, and choosing the right tools when they matter most.
Techniques and Mental Awareness
Techniques like breath control, consonant work, and vocalizations are essential building blocks in voice training. They provide the foundation for everything we do as vocalists, speakers, or communicators. However, the effectiveness of these techniques is directly tied to our mental state when we use them.
For instance, consider deep diaphragmatic breathing—a fundamental technique for sustaining long phrases and maintaining vocal health. It’s a skill that many of us practice regularly, but in moments of anxiety or nervousness, the body often defaults to high, shallow breathing. This is where mental awareness becomes crucial. Recognizing this shift and consciously choosing to employ deep breathing can transform your performance, whether you’re on stage, in a meeting, or having an important conversation.
It’s not enough to simply know the techniques; you must be aware of your physical and mental state and make deliberate choices about which techniques to use. This level of awareness allows you to adapt to the situation and achieve the best possible outcome.
The Role of Adaptive Consciousness
This idea of choosing the right technique in the moment is closely related to what Malcolm Gladwell describes as adaptive consciousness in his book Blink. Gladwell suggests that the most effective decision-making often happens in the blink of an eye, informed by years of practice and experience. In voice training, this means that the techniques you’ve internalized through practice become tools you can deploy instinctively when needed.
However, this instinctual response doesn’t happen automatically. It requires a mental readiness to recognize what’s happening in the moment and to make a deliberate choice about how to respond. It’s about being present and aware, so when the time comes to perform—whether that’s singing on stage, speaking in a meeting, or communicating in everyday life—you can access the right technique without overthinking it.
Consider an athlete, like a golfer or a swimmer, who has spent countless hours perfecting their swing or stroke. On the day of the competition, they rely on muscle memory and instinct, but they also remain mentally alert, ready to adjust based on the conditions they’re facing. The same principle applies to voice work. You practice so that when the moment comes, your body knows what to do—but you also stay mentally engaged, ready to make adjustments as needed.
Practice with Purpose
The key to integrating mental awareness with technical skills is practicing with purpose. It’s not just about repeating exercises or drills; it’s about doing so with an awareness of what you’re trying to achieve. This means being fully present during practice, understanding the specific patterns you’re working on, and considering how these patterns will apply in real-world situations.
For example, when you practice vocalizations, are you simply running through the motions, or are you thinking about how this exercise will help you project your voice in a large room? When you work on breath control, are you mindful of how this skill will allow you to maintain clarity and power in your speech, even under pressure?
By practicing with this level of awareness, you train not just your voice but your mind. You develop the ability to choose the right technique at the right moment, making your voice work more effective and adaptable.
Your thoughts here!
As you reflect on your own practice, consider how you can start incorporating this mental approach into your routine. The next time you practice a technique, pause for a moment. Think about why you’re doing this particular exercise and how it will serve you in real-world situations. Are you mentally engaged, or are you simply going through the motions? How can you practice with more purpose, ensuring that your mind and body are working together to achieve your goals?
Margaret Harshaw’s lesson that singing is 95% mental continues to resonate with me, and I hope it resonates with you as well. It’s a reminder that while techniques are essential, it’s the mental game that truly unlocks their potential. By being aware, present, and purposeful in your practice, you can take your voice to new heights, whether you’re on stage, in a meeting, or simply having a conversation.
Remember, it’s not just about the technique—it’s about the mental game. Be aware, be present, and choose wisely as you continue to develop your authentic voice.
Closing Thought
"Next time you find yourself in a moment of performance or communication, take a mental step back. Ask yourself: What technique do I need right now? How can I mentally prepare to make the best use of it? With time and practice, this mental awareness will become second nature, guiding you to success in every vocal endeavor."
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