I love the sayings “Laughter is the best medicine” and “laughter is the shortest distance between two people.” We all love to laugh (the older I get the more I have to laugh at!) even though we don’t consciously think of all the benefits at the time, we just know it makes us feel better, in general.
Along with the emotional and mental benefits of laughter, the medical field continues to document the physical benefits of laughter as well. Since it’s so good for all of us to laugh, we should make it a priority to incorporate humor and laughter into our work; with our co-workers, customers, suppliers, in advertising, etc.
Norman Cousins, a pioneer in laughter research, said, "Laughter is an anecdote to apprehension and panic...It creates a mood in which the other positive emotions can be put to work, too." “When you laugh, you are more likely to see the bright side of a situation and to have a more positive outlook, which ultimately promotes healing.”
These benefits clearly help reduce absenteeism, sick days, stress at work, and the stresses people take home from work.
Although people don’t remember exactly what we said or did at the time we were with them, they do remember how they felt at the time. This is an important truth for businesses to reinforce with their team. What “feeling” do people take away from working with us? The answer to that can quickly determine whether someone wants to stay with us as a customer. If, on top of meeting the needs of the customer, they remember the experience to include people who created a fun and friendly atmosphere, that’s even better.
Some of my best memories are working with people who encourage laughter to be part of their culture every day at work. It’s impossible for me to talk about this topic without thinking about Bob McDonagh, owner of King Menus, whose headquarters are in Nampa (he was also founder of I/D/E/A in Caldwell). Bob’s been known to help employees cool off on hot days by enthusiastically starting water fights in the parking lot (or snow ball fights), putting “for sale” signs on employees cars, wearing goofy get-ups, leaving secret “gag-gifts” on desks, etc. He will forever and always be one of my best examples (& role models) for encouraging a balanced atmosphere at work; doing a top quality job, while having fun in the process.
Although I can’t document this, I think Bob may somehow be related to Groucho Marx, who said, “A clown is like an aspirin, only he works twice as fast."
*Important Points: 1) Always laugh WITH people, never AT them. 2) Never make fun of anyone. 3) Make sure the humor is “Rated G” – always appropriate. 4) Lighten up; learn to laugh at yourself!
Joan Endicott is a professional speaker - author - life coach and radio host. Clients refer to Joan as a world-class speaker and trainer who makes a positive impact on the individuals in their organization, increasing morale and productivity. Her motivational keynotes and workshops have the powerful blend of her gift of storytelling, sense of humor and tools for practical application. She connects with her audiences regardless of age, industry or venue.
Please visit the website: joanendicott.com (208) 453-8056 – joan@joanendicott.com
