I'm a comedian... No, seriously

 Being a stand-up comedian is not just about telling jokes on stage, it's about putting yourself out there, being vulnerable, and making people laugh. It's a unique combination of art, entertainment, and bravery. But it's also one of the most challenging and rewarding careers you can have.

For me, it all started with my first job. I was working as a server and always cracking jokes and making my co-workers laugh. One day, a friend suggested I try stand-up comedy, and I thought it would be a fun challenge. I started performing at open mic nights and quickly fell in love with the rush of being on stage. There's nothing like making a room full of strangers laugh.

But stand-up comedy is not just about getting laughs, it's also about the craft. Writing a good joke is hard work and so is writing a good set. And making it all come together on stage is even harder. It's a constant process of writing, rewriting, and refining. And even when you have a great set, you never know how it's going to go over with a live audience. That's the beauty and the fear of stand-up comedy.

It's also a career that requires a thick skin. Not every joke will land, and not every audience will be receptive. You have to be able to handle rejection and criticism. It can also be a lonely job, traveling from city to city, performing for strangers night after night. But when it all comes together, and you have a room full of people laughing and cheering, it's all worth it.

Being a stand-up comedian also taught me a lot about myself, especially when it comes to my mental health and anxiety. Being on stage and having to be funny all the time can be incredibly draining and can take a toll on your mental health. It's important to take care of yourself and be aware of the potential effects on your mental health. For me, I've learned to set boundaries for myself and take time for self-care.

In conclusion, being a stand-up comedian is not for everyone. It's a challenging and demanding career, but it's also one of the most rewarding. It's about putting yourself out there, making people laugh and learning a lot about yourself in the process. But it's also important to remember to take care of yourself and be aware of the potential effects on your mental health.