The decision to pursue stand-up comedy has been a tumultuous journey for me. It’s not just about getting up on stage and telling jokes; it’s about wrestling with self-doubt, societal expectations, and the practicalities of life. The idea of doing comedy has always been in the back of my mind. Over the years, I’ve received numerous nudges from prominent comedians and friends who believe I have what it takes. Yet, I’ve always struggled with the notion that I need to be a “serious” person, using my intellect for “serious” pursuits. This inner conflict has kept me from fully embracing my comedic potential.
Living in Perth, the most isolated city in the world, adds another layer of complexity. It’s a clicky town, and the comedy scene here is small and tough. Despite these challenges, I feel a strong pull towards comedy. It’s in my nature, but I’ve been hesitant, partly due to the fear of not being taken seriously and partly due to the practicalities of life. Comedy isn’t just a hobby; it’s a demanding lifestyle that requires daily commitment, writing, and a thick skin to handle the inevitable bombing on stage.
Writing is something I already do extensively. I pour thousands of words into various platforms, but the challenge is transforming those words into something that resonates with an audience. The pressure to create content and maintain a presence online is immense. Everyone is bleeding their lives and emotions online, and it’s about finding a way to turn that into art. I’ve always been oriented towards humour, but confidence and self-talk have been significant barriers.
The decision to go into comedy isn’t straightforward. It requires a deep commitment and a willingness to face the harsh realities of the industry. There’s no guarantee of immediate success or financial stability. Platforms like Patreon can help support this journey, but it’s still a gamble. I need to balance my comedic pursuits with other income-generating activities like corporate speaking and workshops.
I’ve always been a bit of a perfectionist, wanting my material to be tight and well-prepared before stepping on stage. This meticulous approach has its benefits, but it also means I’m slower to take the plunge. The feedback from others has been overwhelmingly positive, but my inner critic is relentless. The fear of failure and the need to be prepared are constant companions.
The decision to pursue comedy is also deeply personal. It’s about modelling courage and resilience for my son, who shares a similar talent. It’s about proving to myself that I can do it, despite the self-doubt and fear. The stage represents a significant challenge, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and self-expression.
As I embark on this journey, I plan to document it through daily journals, sharing the highs and lows with my audience. This transparency is not just for accountability but also to provide insight into the realities of pursuing a dream. It’s about showing that the path to success is fraught with challenges, but it’s also filled with moments of joy and fulfilment.
In essence, my journey into comedy is a leap of faith. It’s about embracing vulnerability, challenging self-doubt, and committing to a path that feels both terrifying and exhilarating. It’s not just about making people laugh; it’s about finding my voice and sharing my story in a way that resonates. And who knows? Maybe this journey will lead to something extraordinary.