Improv for “Modern Elders”
As you age, improv comedy can help you maintain curiosity (which keeps you young)
Times are changing, creating workplace dynamics that have never existed before. These days, a person in their 60’s might have a boss in their 30’s.
This may seem strange because the older person has “paid their dues” and already “forgot more than this kid has learned.” When really the strangest thing here would be the lack of curiosity from someone who is, allegedly, much wiser.
No matter how much older you are than the people around you, your ability to be curious will be what keeps you happy, fulfilled, and young.
I first heard the term “Modern Elder” from Chip Conley, a speaker and New York Times bestselling author. He worked for AirBnB where his boss was half his age. Chip was AirBnB’s “Modern Elder” because he was “as curious as he was wise.”
The phrase spoke to me. Because I’ve had so many “Modern Elders” in my improv comedy classes over the years. I always thought it was charming and maybe a little sweet that they were there. Most of the people in my classes were pursuing a career in comedy, surely these people in their 40’s, 50’s, 60’s didn’t think they were going to “make it” in comedy?
But now I know it’s much more profound than “charming and sweet.” It was vital that they were there. Because practicing a skill like improv comedy can give anyone in their midlife a new outlook on creativity and curiosity. When I started understanding that “making it” means something different for everyone, I became a much better teacher.
It was always so beautiful to witness my improv classes bonding even though they had such different backgrounds and life experiences. The art form brings people together in such a unique way — college students, salespeople, CEO’s, artists, and Modern Elders.
This 3 minute clip is a must watch. You might not be anywhere close to your midlife (yet!) but you need to watch it for the people in your life who are.
I love the concept of a “pro aging product.” Chip is on to something special here. I believe that improv comedy classes are a pro aging product.
Think of it like yoga for your creativity — it’s not something you master after an 8 week course, because the art form is based around something that is constantly evolving: human behavior and communication.
Here’s the improv comedy elevator pitch:
The art form keeps you in the moment. Judgment-free listening and communicating, so that you aren’t in your head over-analyzing every move. You’re right here, right now, with your scene partner. Funny things tend to happen when you let go of control and be your authentic self. After you understand these foundational elements, you learn comedy formulas. That’s when your confidence rises and boom, you’re a more charismatic communicator.
Yes, you can get really good at it. But the point is that you will never fully master it. The improv comedians who truly understand the art form know that it’s all about the journey.
Sound familiar? Older, wiser people know the secret to living a good life. It’s about relationships, living in the moment, and being yourself. That’s also how you do great improv.