<h3>
Be the You in your head. </h3>
Outside, we’re all living a pretty, put together Instagram life. Inside, we’re a torrent of manic emotions, paranoid thoughts, and on the verge of breaking down mentally and emotionally. Be that person.
<h3>Lead with an emotion. </h3>
Walk on knowing that no matter the initiation, you’re going to be frustrated, despondent, lustful, joyful, or aroused. Don’t drop that emotion.
<h3>Lead with a body part. </h3>
Step with a limp, wave your arms in the air, or scrunch up your face. How do you feel? How do you justify that choice?
<h3>Lead with an accent or voice. </h3>
I have mixed feelings on accents since a lot of improvisers use them as the butt of a joke rather than a character tool. Rather than going for the bit, try to do your best and sincere version of an accent. Where does that place you geographically? Who are you?
<h3>Choose your age. </h3>
15. 45. 95. Each age brings new challenges and a different perspective.
<h3>Adopt a strong POV. </h3>
Enter the scene with a strong opinion about anything, even if it’s totally irrelevant. You never miss a midnight movie. You don’t believe in ghosts. If that’s true, what else is true? How do you act given your current situation?
<h3>
Be a fictional character. </h3>
Harry Potter or Mario. Adopt their persona or literally be them.
<h3>
Write a character for yourself.</h3>
I’ve said before that writing is one of the best ways to get better at improv. So write character monologues. Write a play. Do sketch. Take those characters and bring them into new improv scenes. It’s not cheating any more than playing your stock mom character would be.
<h3>
Pick a hot topic (not the store). </h3>
Global warming. The separation of Church and state. Pick a side. Who are you? Can you bring nuance to that person so they’re not a stereotype?
