Thanks for this Peter. I'm just starting out in stand-up after being in the improv world for a couple years and absolutely bombed at a five minute open mic last night.
I realised that I come across very differently to what I thought and I think the audience didn't believe me. Hard but my goal this year is to get to 15 minutes of decent material by December and grow that confidence.
The attention to detail and discipline is something I really respond to.
This is not only relatable but puts my own personal experience into a healthy perspective. Last year I kept saying once I get settled in my day job/once I get my health in order/once I get my sleeping issues sorted I'll return to comedy.
I have to be honest, it's awfully nice being able to get to bed at 9:30 pm. And it's so freeing that I don't have to constantly post on social media promoting shows.
I do miss the people though and connecting with an audience. This piece is definitely making me feel like it's okay. Thank you!
I'm glad you're here on Substack and sharing your experiences. Your work is consistently top-notch. I won't say I'm glad you failed, but I'm glad you're here and I get to (maybe selfishly) experience your work.
I'd like to add that it's shocking how much this mirrors how I think of manga. I used to be obsessed with getting my work serialized. I haven't officially quit-- I have a sickness, I can't swear off it completely-- but I've cooled off from seeing this as my only option in life. Every other endeavor is easy by comparison.
"I don't have to draw 2-4 pages after work? I don't have to translate this into Japanese? I won't pour my heart in something and know the biggest reaction I'll get is a polite rejection from an editor?"
I'm incredibly grateful for that period of my life where I took it so seriously. I know I came out of it much stronger
I appreciate the kind words! It's really cliche and easier shared on Instagram than done, but you start having a lot more fun (And probably creating better work) once you take that pressure off yourself.
Great one man
Ahhhh Mr Nice Comment! Thanks man.
Thanks for this Peter. I'm just starting out in stand-up after being in the improv world for a couple years and absolutely bombed at a five minute open mic last night.
I realised that I come across very differently to what I thought and I think the audience didn't believe me. Hard but my goal this year is to get to 15 minutes of decent material by December and grow that confidence.
The attention to detail and discipline is something I really respond to.
If you’re bombing just starting out you’re right on track. Fifteen reliable minutes by the end of the year is a great goal. Good luck!
Looking forward to reading more of your writing
This is not only relatable but puts my own personal experience into a healthy perspective. Last year I kept saying once I get settled in my day job/once I get my health in order/once I get my sleeping issues sorted I'll return to comedy.
I have to be honest, it's awfully nice being able to get to bed at 9:30 pm. And it's so freeing that I don't have to constantly post on social media promoting shows.
I do miss the people though and connecting with an audience. This piece is definitely making me feel like it's okay. Thank you!
Happy to hear it resonated! There are definitely trade offs. I feel like I’m on the right side of the scales these days.
I'm glad you're here on Substack and sharing your experiences. Your work is consistently top-notch. I won't say I'm glad you failed, but I'm glad you're here and I get to (maybe selfishly) experience your work.
I'd like to add that it's shocking how much this mirrors how I think of manga. I used to be obsessed with getting my work serialized. I haven't officially quit-- I have a sickness, I can't swear off it completely-- but I've cooled off from seeing this as my only option in life. Every other endeavor is easy by comparison.
"I don't have to draw 2-4 pages after work? I don't have to translate this into Japanese? I won't pour my heart in something and know the biggest reaction I'll get is a polite rejection from an editor?"
I'm incredibly grateful for that period of my life where I took it so seriously. I know I came out of it much stronger
I appreciate the kind words! It's really cliche and easier shared on Instagram than done, but you start having a lot more fun (And probably creating better work) once you take that pressure off yourself.