Four Years ago, I discovered my passion for standup comedy. I love learning, writing, and performing with fellow-comedians. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever attempted. It’s difficult, frustrating, and it consumes me. I’ve recently discovered two great books that explain the grind of working toward a long-term goal. THE DIP, by: Seth Godin, and GRIT by: Angela Duckworth. They describe the torturous period of continual-work without immediate results that is required to achieve premium goals. This brutal period begins shortly after the initial “honeymoon” of discovering something new, and doesn’t end until the eventual satisfaction of achieving the goal. Both authors inspired me to embrace this arduous part of my journey.
Becoming a good standup-comedian takes years. I think 10 is a respectable number, and I’m entering my fifth. Too far to turn back, but not far enough to reap rewards. I’m willing to trudge along, provided I’m moving in the right direction. Occasionally though, it’s nice to recharge with some validation!
This past week was extremely gratifying. While Emcee-ing, the Headliner told me that all comics have “headlights”. Experienced comedians see those “headlight” in their rear-view-mirror. Many people want to be comedians, but without true passion, their lights are dim. They drift through the comedy-world, and no one notices. He said: “I see your headlights, bro!”
Also, I was excited to have my four sisters, several friends, in-laws, and my parents attend a show. My parents had never seen me perform! They loved the show, and it was one of the proudest moments of my life! I will pay my dues; I will trudge onward; but today, the “dip” is less dippy, the “grit” is more gritty, and my “high-beams” are on!
Don’t let “the dip” alter your path. If you feel passionate about something, you have been given a gift that most people will never know! Your happiness depends on your persistence to achieve what you’re capable of!