Is some performance anxiety normal?

Yes. Mild anxiety can enhance performance (optimal arousal). However, when anxiety interferes with functioning, it becomes clinically significant.

What causes performance anxiety?

Performance anxiety typically stems from fear of negative evaluation, perfectionism, previous negative experiences, or insufficient preparation and practice.

Can performance anxiety be treated quickly?

Quick fixes like deep breathing help temporarily. However, lasting improvement requires cognitive restructuring and deliberate practice to build confidence.

Scienceanxiety-screener burnout-risk

Performance Anxiety: Workplace, Exams, and Sports

Peter Kolomiets

|March 23, 2026|Updated Apr 13, 2026|7 min

Performance Anxiety: Workplace, Exams, and Sports

Ready to discover your Anxiety Screener?

Take the free test

References

Hofmann, S. G., Newman, M. G., Borkovec, T. D., et al. (2000). Social Anxiety and Performance Anxiety: Distinctions and Overlap
Dunn, J. G., Dunn, J. C., & Syrotuik, D. G. (2002). Performance Anxiety and Competitive Sports
Behnke, R. R. & Sawyer, C. R. (2000). Public Speaking Anxiety: A Review of Prevalence, Predictors, and Treatments

Take the Next Step

Put what you've learned into practice with these free assessments:

Anxiety Screener Test Burnout Risk Test

Explore Remote Careers

🌍Remote Project Manager→📣Digital Marketer→🔍IT Recruiter→All careers →

Science

Self-Help Strategies for Anxiety: Evidence-Based Techniques

Learn practical, evidence-based self-help strategies for managing anxiety symptoms. When to seek professional support.