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Millican’s Law: A Comedian’s Rule for Resilience (and Why You Should Try It Too

Stand up. Because why not?

June 23, 2025

When I’m not working, spending time with family, or knee-deep in some other activity, you might catch me giggling to myself (and sometimes maybe even talking to myself) —either writing something funny or performing it on stage as a stand-up comedy character.

Nearly a year ago, I decided to dive headfirst out of my comfort zone and enrol in the 8-week Ultra Comedy course, because having two boys, 14 and 8 years old, isn't already manic and fun enough, especially with my wild 8 year old gremlin. It’s a crash course in stand-up: you learn the basics, craft a 5-minute set, and perform it at a “graduation” show in front of around 200 friends and family—all while raising money for charity (Mine was Mind).

I’ve always loved comedy, especially stand-up, so I thought, “Why not?” But once I got into it, I was hooked. A few of us from the course kept the craft going. We made new friends, started our own shows, and some of us (like me) went deep—really deep—into the craft. I began studying the science of comedy, reading about its many facets, and practicing as relentlessly as my wife would wish when it comes to chores around the house.

The Real Work Begins on Stage

Stand-up is one of those rare art forms where writing and rehearsing are only part of the equation. The real learning happens on stage. You write material, perform it, gauge the audience’s reaction, tweak it, and repeat. It’s a cycle of constant iteration.

But here’s the thing: every performance is different. The audience changes. The vibe in the room shifts. Lighting, stage height, crowd demographics—these all play a role. Comedy is subjective, like taste. You can’t please everyone. I mean you can try, but as I've found, not everyone appreciates individually wrapped Biscoff biscuits being thrown in their direction as part of a gag, but local MP was fine with it. That's me, providing laughs and a snack since 2024.

Anyway, what you'll find is some nights, you bomb, not getting the response you intend. Other nights, you soar, with laughs, claps and applause. And how you handle those highs and lows? That’s where **Millican’s Law** comes in.

What Is Millican’s Law?

Also known as the 11 o’clock rule, Millican’s Law is a simple but powerful mindset tool shared by comedian Sarah Millican. It goes like this:

  •  Had a bad gig? You’re allowed to wallow, rant, and replay every awkward moment—but only until 11am the next day. After that, draw a line under it. Move on.

  • Had a great gig? Bask in the glory. Gloat. Relive the applause—but again, only until 11am the next day. Then, it’s back to the craft and hustle.

Why?

Because dragging yesterday’s failure into today’s performance can cloud your focus and get in the way. And riding too high on yesterday’s success can make you overconfident, arrogant and complacent. Either way, it affects your next set. and Either way your focus should be on improving and growing.

It’s Not Just for Comedians

Here’s the beauty of Millican’s Law: it’s not just for performers. It’s for anyone. Even you.

Had a rough day at work? That’s okay. Vent, reflect, maybe even sulk a little (and if you're me, blame the tears on the onions, even though none are present)—but only until 8am the next morning. Then, reset. Start fresh.

Had a brilliant day? Celebrate it, have a dance, start a Mexican wave and cheer as loud as you can (I do, just not too loud, disturbs my wife's TV drama time)! But come morning, it’s time to refocus, keep growing and stop the Mexican wave.

It’s a mindset of resilience with boundaries. A way to honour your emotions without letting them overstay their welcome.

So next time you have a win—or a wobble—try Millican’s Law. Give yourself the space to feel it, then the discipline to move forward.

Because whether you’re on stage or in the office, the show must go on.

To read more see the links below:

Let me know what you think in the comments below.

Until next time,

Kash.