Top entertainers' tips for confidence

The comedian: fight fear

"I can get really worried that I'm going to 'die' in front of an audience," says stand-up Jasmine Birtles.

This is despite having an established career. In addition to holding court in clubs, Jasmine, 38, writes sketches, authors joke books, does after-dinner speaking, and provides voiceovers for TV and radio.

To deal with her fears, she examines them: "I ask myself: 'Is this really my opinion of myself?' or 'Am I being misled by my own mind?'"

Ask the right questions
If you find yourself afraid to accept a new work challenge, find out why. Who says you can't do it? Who says you're not the sort of person to take on that responsibility? Where is the evidence to back up this negative perception?

And, remember, even if you did make a mistake, you would learn from it and move on - no real harm done.

The musician: picturing success

"My mouth goes dry. My legs shake. My hands get sweaty," says Katherine Bryan, who's grown up on the stage. She made her debut as a child and went on to perform in Britain, Europe and the US. Now, at 21, she is the Royal Scottish National Orchestra's principal flautist.

Find the ideal scenario
So, before a career difficulty arrives - that Ofstead examiner, for example, or maybe a new manager - visualise yourself dealing with the situation perfectly. Then keep hold of that image. It will boost your confidence.