We’ve probably all heard that laugher is the best medicine, but how does the strength of humor fit into these globally-challenging times? It might surprise you to learn that this strength has many benefits to us currently, such as decreasing anxiety, strengthening relationships, and minimizing stress.
These benefits are all particularly helpful during this unique period. Finding heartfelt humor in our everyday moments can bolster our resilience. In Michelle McQuaid’s book, Can You Put Your Strengths To Work, humor is described as your ability to generate and appreciate the ‘lighter side’ of the moment, whatever the circumstance.
STRENGTH INSPIRATION
Need some inspiration? Check out these stories of people putting their strength of humor to good use in the face of Coronavirus.
A woman in Monticello sent her mother-in-law, sequestered in supportive living, a toilet-paper bouquet to make her laugh.
Neal Diamond sang a touchingly funny rewrite of his song Sweet Caroline that went viral: “Hands……..washing hands.”
DID YOU KNOW…
According to a 2009 study, humor is clinically proven to reduce stress long-term and improve the immune system. Challenge yourself to share a smile with someone every day this week. It can really make a difference!
PUT IT IN PRACTICE
Start your next remote team meeting with a laugh by using one of these creative Zoom backgrounds or by starting a tradition of wearing silly hats on Fridays. The choices of how to inject humor into your work are only bound by your imagination.
Share a funny (and appropriate) video/joke with a colleague. If your team is working remotely or hybrid now, humor can be a wonderful way to stay connected to each other’s humanity.
