Vocal Fundamentals Week 1: Mindset
- Sara Scott McDowell
- Oct 29
- 4 min read
Today, we're talking about our first vocal fundamental: MINDSET
“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies." - Mother Teresa
Progress in most things in life will require a small, simple action done over and over again.
Your voice is no different.
But so often, our mindset stops us from moving forward and improving.
We don't know what to focus on first.
We can't seem to pull our practice or warmup schedule together.
We're afraid we're doing something wrong so we just don't do anything.
Our nerves, anxiety, or stress are so high that we can't get our voice to sound, feel, or perform the way we want it or need it to.
Or, we want one grand gesture or vocal habit that will magically transform our vocals overnight (spoiler alert: there isn't one).
All of these things can leave us feeling guilty or defeated or more confused in the process.
Instead, I want to encourage you to consider the following:
Vocal and leadership growth requires your continued "discomfort", commitment, and discipline of putting into practice the sometimes "boring" or "redundant" things that are necessary to learn, maintain, and grow your gifts and abilities. One step at a time. Over and over and over again. Trusting that God is in the process.
The sooner you can remember and accept this, the sooner you can grow consistently and sometimes exponentially in your abilities and potential. Lord willing, the time will pass anyways, so you may as well be intentional with how you will put your best voice forward!
And you know what?
I. BELIEVE. IN. YOU. BIG. TIME!!!
You can do this. If God has gifted you and God has given you an assignment to use your voice and leadership for His glory - whether that looks like being a Worship Leader, being a Teacher, being a background singer on a worship team, Pastor, etc - then in His strength you can do this!
Also remember that it's NORMAL to get nervous sometimes or have thoughts like, "I'll never be good enough", "This is going to take forever", "I can't stand the sound of my voice today", or "I don't want to warmup/practice/drink enough water today".
So What Can We Do About It?
Ok, so when those tough days or moments hit, here's what I want you to do:
Stop what you're doing and acknowledge the thought.
Stand or sit still with a comfortable and supported posture.
Close your eyes.
Breathe in for 4 counts.
Hold your breath for 4 counts.
Exhale for at least 5 counts.
Repeat up to 3x if necessary
This is a type of deep breathing and nervous system regulation exercise called "BOX BREATHING". This technique does wonders to calm your nervous system and any anxious or negative thoughts. It brings calm to your mind and body, and helps you to feel more relaxed.
The Navy Seals use the box breathing technique. Therapists teach it to their clients. I personally use it to bring negative and anxious thoughts under control or to regulate any nerves before a worship service, speaking event, or performance.
After you've done this exercise, I want you to choose a scripture to think to yourself or say out loud that will help your mindset get back on track. Here are some that I use:
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." Philippians 4:8
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
"Each of you should use whatever gifts you received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." 1 Peter 4:10-11
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." Matthew 28:18
Your assignment this week: work on your mindset.
First, remember that progress will take time, commitment, and the discipline to stick with it. Start working towards learning to accept and embrace this.
Second, notice those thoughts that are not moving your forward in your worship vocals, worship leadership, or worship ministry. Start practicing box breathing. Fill your mind with scriptures and positive things that remind you of who you are and why you want to learn to sing or lead worship better. We need the unique voice and gifts that the Lord has given you! Don't be afraid to use and take care of them!
Next week, we'll talk about diaphragmatic breathing and how good breath support and control matter SO MUCH when it comes to how your voice sounds and feels.
Until then, I hope you enjoy your week. Talk soon!
Hi, I'm Sara!
I support women in worship ministry through vocal coaching, worship leader coaching, and worship ministry coaching. I'm so glad you're here! You can find out more about my coaching options HERE. And always feel free to reach out if you have questions or need anything.
All my best,
Sara
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