Thick skin, nerves of steel

What do you really need to succeed in British comedy? Uncommon luck? Family connections? A trust fund?

All these things obviously help - but are not, we are happy to reassure you, strictly necessary.

But there are certain personal qualities you need to develop that will increase your chances of success.

As Absolutely and Alone's Moray Hunter says,

Patience, resilience and self-belief are pretty key. The ups are great in this line of work but you've got to be able to cope with the downs. Plus a sense of humour comes in handy, too.

Ultimately,

[m]a thick skin...