Change your perspective, realise your potential

Unnatural vs Natural … or Familiar vs Unfamiliar? How a shift in perspective can unlock more of your potential.

To make new sounds, we have to do something different.

But here’s the catch: when we step outside what we’re used to, we often describe it as unnatural. Meanwhile, the things we already know and do — the familiar — feel “natural.”

Most of us don’t enjoy doing things that feel new or “unnatural.” That awkwardness or fear we feel? It’s just our nervous system waving a little red flag, which often prompts us to slam the brakes and retreat. And when that happens, the chance to learn something new disappears.

Try this:
Fold your arms and notice which arm ends up on top.
Now fold them again — but with the other arm on top.

How does it feel?
Odd? Awkward? Unnatural?

If you kept folding your arms that way every day, the awkwardness would fade. Over time, that new way would start to feel familiar — and even natural.

So what’s the takeaway?

Lean in to those unfamiliar feelings associated with making a new or different sound. Instead of labelling them “unnatural,” try calling them what they really are: unfamiliar — knowing that, with time and practice, they will become familiar.

Take the emotional brakes off. Stay with the discomfort a little longer. It’s in that uncomfortable, unfamiliar space that you’ll discover more of your vocal potential — and move beyond your current limits.