Humor Goes A Long Way
A well-timed joke or a funny story can diffuse a situation faster than ice.
How often have you been in a situation where two people are almost ready to blow the top off and nearly ready for a fistfight. Well, in those situations bringing humor to the forefront always helps.
Humor is mankind’s greatest blessing — Mark Twain
Recently I was at a conference, and there was a discussion on leadership in a crisis. There was a strong feeling on both sides of the panel, and at a point, it looked like one of them was going to blow off. However, the moderator was a wise chap who cracked a joke at the right time and diffused the whole situation. That got me thinking about how humor can be the most incredible tool we can use. Every time you find humor in a situation, you are a winner.
Funny people are more popular, relatable, and generally more sought after as a company. They uplift the mood of any gathering and create an atmosphere of fun and positivity. People want to be surrounded by others who make the room lighter. Nothing is more remarkable than a funny comeback, even in groups with a few sarcastic people.
The next logical question that comes to our mind is that we are not all born funny, and neither do we develop this as a habit. So, how do we find humor in any situation? Two rules of thumb that work well are
Rule Number 1: Don't take yourself too seriously.
Life is short, fast, and unforgiving. So take it easy and keep an open mind to learn and improve no matter what age you are.
In any situation, even sad or heartbreaking, think of what you would be thinking of it five years from now. It'll change your whole perspective. Don't all our embarrassing moments in life look hilarious a few years later?
Rule Number 2: Look at others' intentions.
When we start looking at other people's intentions rather than their words, any situation becomes more negotiation than a conflict. Humor is a great way to get past disputes and disagreements and regain perspective. Also, laughter is contagious; not kidding. When you see someone smile or laugh, you automatically feel happier and seek them out. Humor makes you look at things differently and makes you more tolerant.
It's essential to be sensitive to others' feelings when using humor. It can diffuse a situation, but it can quickly bring the house down if used at the wrong moment or in the wrong context. Humor, in any case, should be enjoyable for everyone. Use it wisely but often.
