Meet Moe Ismail

 

We recently connected with Moe Ismail and have shared our conversation below.

Moe, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I’ve come to terms with the fact that imposter syndrome is something I will never totally overcome. I feel like it’s one of those things that will always just kinda chill in my subconscious, and I just have to work with it when I need to. I’ve been doing stand-up for almost 16 years now, and I still sometimes feel like I’m not actually a comedian. It’s really strange. Sometimes it feels like I just got lucky or played ‘the game’ well enough to fool everyone into thinking I’m actually a comic. I don’t think it’s totally unhealthy, though. It’s just part of being in any profession you care about, especially a creative one. I’m fortunate enough to have accomplished many amazing feats and accolades in my career, but I’m also surrounded by people who are so incredibly talented. That’s where the imposter syndrome kicks in. Oftentimes it’s easier to admire people around you and look at them in such awe than it is to look at yourself in the same way. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still super proud of myself, but I think imposter syndrome is something that’s perfectly normal. You just have to combat it by consistently reminding yourself that you are exactly where you’re supposed to be. Loving yourself and bigging yourself up is just as important as going to the gym or eating healthy. Daily affirmations is where it’s at! You’re dope and I love you.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m a stand-up comedian from a really dope place called Scarborough, Ontario. I love telling funny stories and joking around. My goal is to just keep getting funnier, travel around telling jokes, and make a decent living with funny money.

I’m recording my first comedy special on Saturday Oct 25th in Toronto! It’s gonna be a really dope night with other hilarious comics opening on the shows! Hope to see you there iyou’re in the hood!

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/moe-ismail-live-comedy-special-recording-tickets-1690419011769?aff=oddtdtcreator

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Just focus on being the most authentic version of yourself. I used to hyper-focus on what people wanted and try to do just that. But the further I get in my career, I feel like it’s more about being yourself, being vulnerable, and your tribe/fans will find you. Even if you’re a weirdo, don’t try to be “cool” just to seem more appealing. Lean into the weirdness and people will relate more to that than anything else.

2. Take breaks when you need to. Hustle culture can be kind of toxic and is not very sustainable in the long run. If this is what you want to do, then remind yourself that this is a marathon, not a sprint. If things stop being fun and exciting, take some time away and do other things that make you happy like spending time with people that make you happy or going to Costco. Go outside and get some fresh air!

3. Don’t compare yourself to others. I know people always say this, but it’s easy to get wrapped up in what everyone else is doing, especially with social media and all. Just focus on getting better at your craft and don’t worry about everyone else. Stay in your lane and keep making yourself proud.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I usually try to hit up a local food court at the mall and crush a meal. Being in a food court is the best vibe! Everyone is eating something they like. There’s no reason to be bummed out at a food court at all. It’s also funny to look at what people chose to eat. Like, you’re gonna get a hot dog from New York Fries instead of a big ass plate of Chinese food?! Buddy…you’re cooked.

I also like taking walks in nature and vibe out around some trees.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Sarah Delangel, Matt Azzarello, Kate Dockery, Headshots_By_Andrew, Leo Montero

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