New Comedian Arrogance: Why It Happens & How To Deal

Hey guys! Ever noticed how some new comedians can sometimes come off as a bit… arrogant? Yeah, it's a thing. It's not all of them, of course, but it's common enough that it's worth talking about. So, let's dive into why this happens and, more importantly, how to deal with it.

Why the Arrogance?

Okay, so why do some new comedians seem to have this arrogant streak? There are actually a few reasons, and it's rarely just about them being jerks. Usually, it's a mix of insecurity, excitement, and a whole lot of pressure. Let's break it down:

The High of Early Success

Imagine this: you've been grinding away, telling jokes to empty rooms, and then BAM! Suddenly, you get a few laughs, a few gigs, and maybe even a bit of online buzz. It's intoxicating! This early success can create a sense of invincibility. They start thinking, "I've made it! I'm hilarious!" It's like a sugar rush – exciting, but ultimately unsustainable. They might start acting like they're already headlining arenas when, in reality, they're still learning the ropes. This inflated ego can come across as arrogance, even if they don't mean it that way.

Insecurity Masked as Confidence

Comedy is brutal, guys. You're constantly putting yourself out there, opening yourself up to criticism and rejection. It takes guts! But underneath that brave face, a lot of new comedians are terrified. They're worried they're not good enough, that they'll bomb, or that the audience will hate them. To combat these fears, some comedians overcompensate by projecting an image of unwavering confidence. This can manifest as arrogance. It's like they're saying, "Look how great I am! Please don't notice how scared I am inside!" It's a defense mechanism, a way to protect themselves from the harsh realities of the comedy world.

The Pressure to Be Different

The comedy scene is competitive. Everyone's trying to stand out, to find their unique voice. This pressure to be different can sometimes lead new comedians to adopt an arrogant persona. They might think that being controversial, edgy, or even offensive is the only way to get noticed. They might push boundaries too far, make insensitive jokes, or act like they're above the rules. It's all part of trying to carve out their niche, but it can easily backfire and make them seem like a songong newbie.

Lack of Experience and Perspective

Let's face it: when you're new to something, you don't know what you don't know. New comedians may lack the experience and perspective to understand the nuances of the comedy world. They might not realize that arrogance is a turn-off, that it alienates audiences and other comedians. They might not understand the importance of humility, of paying your dues, and of respecting the craft. It's like they're driving a car without a map, speeding down the road with no idea where they're going. They need time to learn, to grow, and to develop a more mature and balanced approach.

How to Deal with Arrogant New Comedians

Okay, so you've encountered a songong new comedian. What do you do? Here's a guide to navigating these tricky situations:

Check Your Own Perspective

Before you react, take a moment to check your own perspective. Are you being overly sensitive? Are you jealous of their success? Are you misinterpreting their confidence as arrogance? Sometimes, what seems like arrogance is just someone who's genuinely excited and enthusiastic. Try to give them the benefit of the doubt, at least initially.

Offer Constructive Criticism (Gently!)

If you feel comfortable, offer constructive criticism. But be gentle! Remember, they're probably insecure and sensitive. Frame your feedback in a positive and supportive way. For example, instead of saying, "Your jokes are terrible and you're not funny," try saying, "I think your set has potential, but maybe you could try tightening up the pacing and focusing on more relatable material." The key is to be helpful, not hurtful.

Lead by Example

Sometimes, the best way to deal with arrogance is to lead by example. Show them what it means to be a humble, respectful, and supportive comedian. Be generous with your time and advice. Celebrate their successes. And always treat them with kindness and empathy. Your positive influence might rub off on them and help them to become better comedians and better people.

Ignore and Avoid

If the arrogance is too much to handle, or if the comedian is being genuinely offensive or disrespectful, it's okay to ignore and avoid them. You don't have to engage with their negativity. Just focus on your own work and surround yourself with positive and supportive people. There are plenty of other comedians out there who are worth your time and energy.

Remember It's a Phase

Most importantly, remember that arrogance is often a phase. As new comedians gain experience and confidence, they usually mellow out. They learn to be more humble, more self-aware, and more respectful. So, try to be patient and understanding. Give them time to grow and mature. They might just surprise you.

For the New Comedians: How to Avoid the Arrogance Trap

If you're a new comedian, it's important to be aware of the arrogance trap. Here are some tips to help you avoid falling into it:

Stay Humble

Humble is key. Even if you're killing it on stage, remember that there's always more to learn. There are always comedians who are funnier, more experienced, and more successful than you. So, stay grounded and keep learning.

Be Respectful

Respect everyone, from the sound guy to the headliner. Treat everyone with kindness and courtesy. Remember that comedy is a community, and you're all in this together.

Listen to Feedback

Be open to feedback, even if it's critical. Don't get defensive or dismissive. Listen carefully to what people are saying and try to learn from their insights.

Pay Your Dues

Don't expect instant success. Be prepared to grind, to work hard, and to pay your dues. Perform in small rooms, open for other comedians, and do whatever it takes to hone your craft.

Remember Why You Started

Never forget why you started doing comedy in the first place. Was it for the fame? Was it for the money? Or was it because you love to make people laugh? Keep your passion alive, and let it guide you on your journey.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it. Arrogance in new comedians is a complex issue with a variety of causes. By understanding these causes and learning how to deal with songong behavior, we can create a more supportive and positive comedy community. And for the new comedians out there, remember to stay humble, be respectful, and never forget why you started. Now get out there and make us laugh!