When life throws us hardships, it's normal to feel sad, negative, or tired. While we shouldn't suppress all sad feelings, we should also take the necessary steps to reach happier, stronger ground. Humor is a tool that can help with this.
Humor reduces stress
The physical act of laughing releases endorphins that make us feel good. Consider a time of great stress or sadness. It's not unusual that during that moment, someone says something funny and people laugh. This humor, though misplaced, is what breaks tensions and strengthens bonds and relationships.
We can bring that same need for convenience to the workplace. The expression: "Those who love work, never have to work a day in their lives", is true. Humor equals fun. When we have fun, we enjoy what we do, and even the most tedious tasks are not so stressful. Emphasizing work-life balance is a trend in many organizations. Some companies have the time and environment to play, have fun and laugh. These initiatives reduce stress levels and ultimately increase productivity.
Humor facilitates and strengthens relationships
When we laugh with others, we create memories and strengthen our relationships. People remember how others make them feel, and many memories are associated with moments of laughter and joy.
Unfortunately, some use humor to cover up insecurities or hide from their true feelings. This is not ideal.
Humor avoids unpleasant situations or "embarrassment" at work
For example, when a leader makes fun of himself, employees see him as a nicer person. This promotes better overall reporting and increased productivity. Team meetings or work meetings are more enjoyable and more work gets done because employees communicate and like to communicate with each other.
However, there is a time and place for humor and of course there are situations or moments where jokes would be overkill, but finding that middle or moment to crack a good joke can help ease the tension, strengthen of connections and in creating a more comfortable and productive work environment.
Tip: For the next week, find one thing that makes you laugh every day. See how those few minutes will positively affect your attitude and emotional state.
