Open mics are wild. They’re part performance, part group therapy, and part fever dream hosted in the back of a brewery with one working mic and a light controlled by someone named Devin. But here’s the secret: they’re also incredible.

Comedy isn’t just about being funny. It’s about being brave, resilient, and just a little nuts (in the best way). If you’ve got the heart, I promise you can build the rest.

Ah, the age-old question that haunts every open micer as they sip their two-drink minimum: Will I ever make money doing this? Short answer? Yes. Longer, more honest answer? Yes, but probably not how you think.

Look at you. Sitting there, reading a blog post written by a fabulous gay man with cheekbones sharp enough to cut glass, wondering if you’ve got what it takes to do stand-up comedy. First of all—good taste. Second—maybe.

Great question. I’ve asked myself this very thing—usually right after bombing in a bar show next to a Golden Tee machine while a drunk guy yells “YOU SUCK, ELLEN!” (I mean… thank you?).

Look, not every joke is gonna be a winner. Some jokes just aren’t meant to live past their first awkward chuckle—or worse, that silent vacuum where laughter should be but instead, you just hear your own self-esteem shattering like a glass dropped in a nightclub bathroom.

You’re in it for the love, right? The applause, the craft, the chance to have strangers cackle at your pain. But let’s not kid ourselves—you’re also wondering, when do I start making money doing this?

Stage fright is a common fear that many people experience when they have to perform in front of others. It can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms, but there are professionals who can help. Stage fright is a common fear, but it is possible to overcome it. With practice and preparation, you can learn to manage your anxiety and deliver a confident performance.

Finding one's comedic "voice" is a journey that varies for each comedian. It typically involves a combination of self-discovery, trial and error, and honing one's skills over time. Here are a few steps that comedians often take to develop their voice:

To become a stand-up comic, you'll need a few essential tools, but remember, becoming a stand-up comic requires persistence, dedication, and continuous improvement. It's a journey that involves constant learning and adaptation. Enjoy the process and keep refining your craft along the way!

The earnings of comedians can vary greatly depending on their level of fame, experience, and success. Some comedians who have achieved significant success and popularity can earn millions of dollars per year through various sources, including stand-up comedy performances, tours, television shows, movies, endorsements, and merchandise sales. However, it's important to note that not all comedians reach such high levels of income, and many comedians earn more modest salaries.

Getting started in stand-up comedy can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Here are ten steps to help you begin. But remember, comedy is subjective, and what works for one person may not work for another. Stay persistent, be yourself, and have fun with it. Good luck on your stand-up comedy journey!