Starting a career as a stand up comedian can be both thrilling and daunting. From my own experience and conversations with others in this field, the amount you can make varies widely depending on your exposure, venue, and skill level. Many comedians begin by performing just a few times on small stages, often without pay, because the real income only comes after you build a reputation and gain confidence. I've found that the early days are about honing your material and learning to engage the audience rather than earning a paycheck. The OCR phrases from the images emphasize important mindset aspects, such as "Just do it," "Don't think," and "If you keep never do it," which reflect the courage needed to keep performing despite initial setbacks. This persistence is essential to succeed in comedy. Moreover, the mention of jobs and apps like "getahea" suggests that modern comedians can leverage online platforms to showcase talent and find gigs, broadening their opportunities. In terms of earnings, stand up comedians usually progress from unpaid open mics to paid gigs at clubs or private events. Experienced comedians can earn anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars per show, but this takes time, creativity, and persistence. Equipment and stage presence also play a crucial role—having the right setup and confidence can significantly impact your success. If you’re starting out, focus first on building your skills and audience. Attend workshops, participate in open mic nights, and use job apps or social media to get noticed. Remember, like any creative job, stand up comedy involves ups and downs, but the fulfillment from making people laugh and connecting with an audience is unmatched. Keep performing, refining your act, and seeking new opportunities to grow as a comedian.