This was me just about to go into the comedy clowns club as a comedian – way, way, way out of my comfort zone.
What you see is smiles, a bit of posing and happiness…
What I was feeling was sick to my stomach, anxious, worried. My ‘spidey sense’ was tingling and fear of failure.
In my head, I was trying to find an excuse to get out of it. Did I really want to do it? I’m not funny. How will I react if it doesn’t make anyone laugh? My pride and shame could be triggered – how will that affect me? I’ll never see these people again, it doesn’t matter. But it does, I don’t want to fail. Why the hell did I agree to do it? I’m never saying yes to anything again. Where can I run? I can do this, it’s fine. What if it’s not? I’m not going to die, I’ll just learn from it. 2hrs later I was adding to my routine as I listened to the others. I’m 4th in and they are doing well, can I excuse myself and leave, what excuse can I use?
Comfort Zone Smashed!
I did my set, I didn’t look at anyone. I had a few laughs and some great feedback and encouragement, I didn’t die, I didn’t fail. I learnt about me, comedy and most importantly – my pride wasn’t dented, it was inflated. I am proud of myself. Not sure I would do it again but I will definitely push myself out of my comfort zone, even knowing how powerful those emotions were. The benefit outweighs the risk.
What are you avoiding because of the potential risk?