162: How to Stop Doubting and Start Performing, with Brent Vaartstra (Passive Income Musician)

<p class="p1">Have you ever wanted to get out there and start performing? Maybe solo at an open mic night, maybe getting involved in the local blues jam, maybe starting or joining a band - or even going out and getting paying gigs as a live performer.</p> <p class="p2"> </p> <p class="p1">If so, you might have found yourself in the situation many of us do: our skills are up to scratch but we’re still not ready. Emotionally, mentally, psychologically, we just have some kind of barrier that stops us from taking the plunge.</p> <p class="p2"> </p> <p class="p1">Today on the show we have a returning guest, our friend Brent Vaartstra from the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, and his new show, Passive Income Musician.</p> <p class="p2"> </p> <p class="p1">When Brent was with us before, we talked mostly about jazz and improvisation, but today we wanted to dig into something different with him: what it’s like to be a gigging musician. From the practicalities to the juicy mindset stuff that can make the difference between sitting alone at home practicing by yourself for the rest of your life - and getting out there and sharing your music with the world confidently in a variety of musical situations.</p> <p class="p2"> </p> <p class="p1">Brent shares some really valuable insights and actionable tips, including:</p> <p class="p2"> </p> <p class="p1">• The number one most important thing to do in advance of a session or gig</p> <p class="p1">• How to handle a new and intimidating performance situation, especially as an introvert</p> <p class="p1">• And we talk about “Imposter Syndrome” - that psychological phenomenon where you continually worry you’ll be found out as a fraud - even when you are actually good enough for what you’re doing - and Brent shares his six tips for overcoming it.</p> <p class="p2"> </p> <p class="p1">We loved having this opportunity to draw on Brent’s expertise and wisdom beyond the world of jazz, and we know you’re going to find a ton of valuable stuff here, especially if performing is part of your musi