One of the best practices a magician can commit to is filming themselves as they run through their performance… and the performances themselves.
Filming is important because if there’s one thing you learn about watching yourself—it’s the camera doesn’t lie.
It clearly shows your awkward movements, fumbles, overall body language and stage presence. While tough to witness, it gives you honest feedback to work on for the next performance.
One thing I’ve come to appreciate about the podcast I’m running with my friend Chris is listening to myself speak. Even after the editing that is done, it’s educational to hear:
– How often I ramble
– Excessive use of filler words
– Stories and anecdotes I repeat over multiple episodes
This has been helpful in being mindful about my speech patterns in daily life. It’s been especially useful in the classroom… not to mention on current episodes of the podcast we are recording (you actually hear stark improvements every four to five episodes).
As a self-reflective exercise, recording yourself isn’t a bad idea. You don’t need a podcast, or a career as an entertainer, to ask friends if you can record a conversation one night.
You’ll be amazed at what you might learn.
After all, the camera (or recorder) doesn’t lie.
The real question is, are you ready to hear the truth about yourself?