“But…I’m not a comedian…”
That’s what my brain kept telling me as I prepared for a set at the National Speakers Association Night of Comedy at their annual conference this summer.
Yes, I write funny songs on occasion and use them in my keynotes – but a comedy set? That’s a different skill!
(and trying it out for the first time in front of an audience of professional speakers? What the hell was I thinking?!?)
But, I write (and speak) extensively about integrating your existing talents in creative ways – I had to put my money where my mouth is and give it a shot.
So, I dug in.
I practiced.
I rewrote and rewrote the setup parts.
I added new timing and facial expressions.
And worked through my nerves, took the stage
And it went…
Well, I’ll let you decide. Watch the video below.
But here’s what I learned that might help you with whatever new endeavor you are facing.
- There’s no substitute for doing the work. To do this, I had to scrutinize every word, every pause, and practice my butt off.
- There’s a periphery around skills sets that is wider than we think. In the right context, and with the right amount of work, we can show up in an area that’s new to us and rock it.
And, finally,
- While I have no real comedic aspirations, it felt good to put myself out there, stretch myself and realize that it could be done. I may never do it again, but I did it that night, and it rocked.
What stages are waiting for you?
