Risk Looking Like a Fool ... a Funny One

Note: This post was originally shared in my "Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit" Facebook group back in 2018.

How willing are you to risk looking like a fool in service of your mission or the work that you're here to do in this world?

I just had a successful comedy showcase this past Saturday (in case you didn't know, yep, I do stand-up comedy as well).

Later, one of my fellow performers said, "Hey, how about we hit another open mic on Monday?" To which, I responded, "No, I need to take this following week off." Parts of my body were hurting, and my body was sore all over for about 3 days. I felt like I had just finished running a race.

You see, for my performance of this particular set, I decided to be more than just a funny, "talking head" comic. I had been a very physical improv comedian years ago, and for this showcase I wanted to challenge myself by bringing more physicality and other modes of expression to the performance of my jokes. I decided to risk looking like a fool on stage.

And the experience - from developing my set to rehearsals to the final performance - was INCREDIBLE.

I surprised my audience by doing multiple karate chops and kicks in a row on stage. I also did different voices and sound effects and included music. I even let myself emote, such as sounding REALLY frustrated and panicky. I was brought up in my family to be well-mannered and composed so being "out of control" in public would be considered a big no-no.

But once Joanne is really committed to something, she follows through.

One of my fellow performers said to me: "I wish I have your confidence!"

How did my confidence come about? Through learning from taking risks in different areas of my life, being committed to my life purpose (i.e., to inspire people and uplift the world), and doing inner work to access my confident, powerful Self.

Truthfully, I was nervous right before my performance. But amidst all the excited energy in the showcase room, I quietly went inward and got myself to focus.

What creative risks would you like to take in your work/business/career, but you haven't done so because of your fears?

By taking creative risks, I am bringing more of me into my work. I am not *just* a club comedian, an inspirational speaker, or a coach. I am a woman carrying out a mission using my multiple talents and passions, and doing so helps me stand out from the crowd.

If standing out in your business/career is important to you (so that you can make sustainable living doing the work that you’re meant to do), what elements of YOU can you bring forth into your work to distinguish yourself from others in your field?

Comment below and let me know.

Until next time.

To living courageously,

Joanne Chen