38, finally did it. Thanks for your help

Title really. Finally took the plunge and did a 10 minute spot at my local open mic. It was at a venue I've loved and watched comedy and bands in since I was a teenager. Was expecting 30-40 people, instead there were approx 100.

It wasn't a comedy specific night so lots of singers, bands and a younger crowd than I was expecting.

A comedian went up a few acts before me and did....OK. Is it wrong to get a confidence boost from seeing someone else not perform well? Not in a mean way, just he was making mistakes I have seen called out here and knew I was prepared to not make.

I was surprised at what level jokes hit at. Some of my 'better' bits got just an OK reaction but then some filler gags and run ons got great laughs. Either way, I think doing 10 here has helped me find a better 5 inside of it.

Watching it back, I was guilty of stepping on my own laughs because I was so focused on remembering the next bit. I made a few mistakes but I'm confident only me and my wife could even tell. 2 promoters from neighbouring cities were there and approached me after the fact to invite me to thier open nights which I'm taking as a huge positive.

Anyway, wanted to say thanks to this sub for all the advice and constructive conversation. For all the "is X too old to try standup?" posts, I just wanted to let you know my experience.