How Improv Acting Builds Confidence, Presence, and Emotional Resilience
Since moving to Paris, I've embraced a new hobby that has surprised me in more ways than one: improvisational theatre, or improv acting. It's been a game-changer — not just in my personal life, but also in how I connect with others as a therapist.
Improv was a choice that seemed out of left field to those who know me.
The last time I'd stepped on a stage was in middle school (and only because it was compulsory!). But I've always believed in the power of hobbies to enrich our lives. Throughout adulthood, I've pursued different activities — yoga, photography, writing, cooking — all of which have brought me joy and helped me grow. Some even opened doors to professional opportunities: I became a part-time yoga teacher in Singapore, wrote freelance for local magazines, and have sold a few of my photographs.
But regardless of outcomes, hobbies have always served as a way to stay active, learn new skills, and challenge my thinking. And improv has done just that… and more.
Why Improv Acting?
For years, theatre had been at the back of my mind. My work as a therapist and former teacher often involves speaking in front of groups and fostering connections with people. I had a sense that developing my charisma and presence could only help me in these roles. As a fan of cinema and theatre, I often wondered: Could I do what those actors do?
It was a friend who finally nudged me into action. She was signing up for an improv course and invited me along. Looking back, I think it's fair to say improv chose me.
So, What's It Been Like?
In a word? Fun. Lots of fun. At its core, improv is about play — something most of us don't get enough of in adulthood. In my weekly improv class here in Paris, we play games that get us moving, using our voices, and becoming more aware of our surroundings. We sharpen our listening skills and practice responding in the moment. And we get comfortable with things that might normally make us squirm — like silence or holding intense eye contact.
These games are playful and silly, but they teach powerful lessons: not just for the stage — for life too.
Fun as it is, improv is a serious art that's challenged me out of my comfort zone in ways I didn't expect. Learning to silence that inner critic, to stay present instead of overthinking, and to accept the possibility of "failing" in front of others takes real work.
And yet, the more I practiced, the more I found myself developing a sense of mastery. Little by little, I noticed changes. My responses became quicker, more intuitive. I felt more at ease with taking risks, more confident in trusting myself, and less worried about how things might look to others. That feeling of growth and progress — of mastering something difficult — has been incredibly rewarding.
These moments of mastery don't just stay on the stage. They spill into everyday life, bringing with them a greater sense of confidence, resilience, and presence in how I interact with the world.
Improv Acting and Mental Health
As a therapist, I often talk about the importance of being present, embracing vulnerability, and building confidence. Improv hits all of these areas in one dynamic practice.
Improv teaches you to:
Stay present. You can't plan what's coming next — you have to be fully tuned in to your scene partner.
Let go of perfectionism. In improv, mistakes are part of the fun. You learn to embrace failure, laugh at yourself, and move on.
Trust your intuition. There's no time to overthink. You respond from the gut, which can be incredibly freeing.
Be vulnerable. Some of the best moments in improv come from allowing your genuine feelings and ideas to surface without filtering them.
I've personally noticed how improv has helped me connect more deeply with my intuitive self. It's made me more authentic in social situations where I once might have held back. I'm less afraid of being seen — and that's something I see mirrored in my fellow classmates.
Many of them have shared how improv has boosted their confidence, not just on stage but in everyday life. Whether it's public speaking, social interactions, or handling unexpected situations, the skills we practice in improv translate beautifully to the "real world."
How Improv Can Support Your Personal Growth (and Therapy Journey)
As a therapist working with expats and professionals in Paris, I often encourage clients to explore new activities that foster self-expression, emotional regulation, and stress relief. Improv acting ticks all these boxes.
If you struggle with:
Social anxiety
Overthinking or perfectionism
Fear of failure or judgment
Difficulty expressing yourself authentically
…improv can be an incredibly healing and empowering experience. It's a form of creative therapy in its own right, offering a safe, supportive space to experiment, express, and connect.
Thinking About Starting a New Hobby? Here Are My Tips:
1. Choose Something You Genuinely Enjoy
Don't just pick a hobby because it's trendy or because your friends are doing it. Whether it's improv, yoga, painting, or rock climbing, you should enjoy the process, not just the end goal.
2. Classes Aren't Essential—But They Help
Formal classes are great for learning the basics and meeting like-minded people. But if you can't join a class, that's okay! There are countless ways to pursue hobbies independently—YouTube tutorials, online communities, or casual meetups.
3. Don't Force It
If a hobby isn't bringing you joy, give yourself permission to move on. It's okay to try something and decide it's not for you. Life is too short for hobbies that feel like chores.
4. Think Outside the Box
Be open to trying things you never considered before. Improv acting wasn't on my radar until I gave it a go—and now it's something I treasure. Ask friends for recommendations or browse local events. You might be surprised at what resonates!
Ready to Try Something New for Your Wellbeing?
In my therapy practice, I work with individuals who are looking to rediscover themselves, build confidence, and live more authentically. Sometimes, finding a new hobby like improv acting can be a powerful step in that journey.
If you're an expat or professional in Paris feeling stuck, stressed, or disconnected, therapy can help you explore what's next. Together, we can look at tools and strategies to support your mental health — whether it's through counselling sessions, mindfulness practices, or discovering new activities that light you up.
Book a Session Today
I offer online and in-person therapy in Paris for English-speaking clients.
Contact me here to book your first session or schedule a free consultation