Professional speaker, giddy ballerina.

Performing at open mics reveals unexpected results.

Since embarking on this standup comedy journey, I recently delivered my first keynote presentation in a while.

It was refreshing to have the audience’s undivided attention for an hour-long presentation. The client paid me well, and they flew me across the country to deliver my speech. They were there to see me, and it felt glorious!

Performing comedy at open mics has been daunting. Audiences don’t know who you are and don’t care. Sometimes they talk over you from the dark corners of the rear of the bar. Other times, only a few people are still there, sipping on their last beers before closing time when I finally get called to the stage. I’m not complaining; I realize this is part of the process.

During my presentation, I had the audience laughing more than ever before. I felt myself bouncing across the stage like a giddy ballerina. I swear it wasn’t that weird for the audience. :)

I felt better than ever doing what I was born to do. The stage is where I belong; teaching people how to communicate better and having them laugh as they learn is my nirvana.

And it’s the laugh that’s key. It reveals they are listening. It indicates they are enjoying the show. And that’s what this is all about.

How about you? I recommend trying something like an open mic or anything else that puts you out of your comfort zone.