The Benefits of Humor at Work
A natural sense of humor is a wonderful gift, and the benefits of humor at work are many. Recently I was working with a client via Zoom, focusing on some nitty gritty processes, and she said, “I never thought doing this would be so fun.”
Our conversation was light, each of us sharing low key laughs over something trivial that the other said while we chipped away at the work. We all have parts of our work that can be dry and tedious. Humor can break that up and bring some levity to your less attractive but compulsory tasks.
Establishing systems, implementing processes, scheduling tasks and taking action - wait, did I just catch you yawning? - well now you’re chuckling because the truth in this is funny. These are the types of things that can inspire a nap. But they are necessary to land in the successful space of goal achievement.
Where does the word humor come from?
Here are some words from different definitions: mood/ temporary state of mind, amusing quality/ funniness. It’s connected to other familiar words, like human, humble, humid and humus - meaning earth, or add an “m” to get a dip for veggies - you choose. Did you catch the humor there?
I get it, but do I really need humor?
If you don’t have a good sense of humor, you’re going to want to develop one to get through those days when nothing goes right. There are risks, challenges and concerns every single day in the world of entrepreneurship. This can cause stress, tension, and anxiety that humor and laughter can relieve. And it’s better to laugh than cry, right?
I’m sure some of the reasons you went out on your own were the enjoyment and excitement you can experience on the best days in business. So ask yourself, how long can I stick it out in business if I don’t have a little fun once in a while?
Humor is a mark of resilience, of believing that you can work things out and everything can be okay.
An added bonus is that humor is good for your health!
In the short term it has a calming effect on the brain, relieving stress and minimizing tension. Over the long term it boosts the immune system,improves mood, and reduces anxiety and depression.
But what does humor have to do with my clients?
I work pretty intimately with my clients when it comes to the details of their business. They all have moments of self-doubt and overwhelm. But when we can laugh together it neutralizes the situation - they see me as human not just as an expert who knows more. I can laugh as I tell them about my difficult moments and how I turned them into successful moments. It’s a wonderful way to build rapport, and create connection and a sense of mutual relatability.
Some final thoughts about the use of humor
It's a key ingredient in creative thinking.
Allows you to relax, open up and be yourself.
It prevents you from taking yourself too seriously.
You can redirect tense or heavy moments of conversation.
It’s also a sign of confidence, perseverance, and positive mindset.
It increases productivity because there's less time wasted on worrying.
In challenging times it’s a great way to blow off steam and relate to each other in a non-judgmental way.
In fact, I don’t work with anyone I can’t laugh with.
When you can laugh at yourself at times that can otherwise be vulnerable, you allow others to do the same. We are human, after all. We are all flawed in some way and can make mistakes. Except me, of course. (Got you again! Ha ha)
If you’d like get in a few good laughs while getting your business goals, systems, and processes in order, consider working with me either privately or in one of my groups. Schedule a call and we can see if we’re a good fit!
P.S. Ready to stop spinning in place and get to the other side of your goals? Here are several ways I can help:
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