Performance anxiety can show up in many forms — whether it’s the fear of speaking in a group, the pressure to excel in your job, or the intense stress before a game or performance. These experiences often come with overthinking, physical tension, self-doubt, or even avoidance of the situations that matter most to you. At On My Own Side Counselling Services, I provide a supportive space to explore what’s underneath that anxiety and help you build the tools to show up with more calm, clarity, and confidence.
Performance anxiety often stems from a mix of past experiences, internalized expectations, and fear of judgment or failure. In social situations, it may be linked to earlier rejection or feeling misunderstood, leading to hyperawareness and overanalyzing. At work, pressure to succeed, perfectionism, or imposter syndrome can trigger chronic stress and self-criticism. In sports, anxiety can build from past mistakes, coach or parental pressure, or tying one’s identity to performance. Together, we work to understand the roots of your anxiety and untangle the patterns that keep it alive — so you can step into high-pressure moments with greater emotional freedom and self-trust.
