Performance anxiety

Stage fright is natural, particularly earlier in a stand-up career - but established comedians can also experience it.

Here are some simple tips for dealing with stage fright.

1. Prepare relentlessly

Know your material inside out. Rehearse your opening five minutes until you could deliver it in your sleep.

When you're confident in your content, your brain has one less thing to panic about. Stage fright often comes from fear of the unknown - eliminate as many unknowns as possible.

2. Use the 4-7-8 breathing technique

Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Do this three times...