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Something to Laugh About

by Audrey Pihulyk

Turn Things Around With Humour

You have probably heard the saying, “Keep your nose to the grindstone.” This saying aptly describes the old Puritan work ethic of no nonsense, no play, and only hard work. Unfortunately today, its principles still govern the thinking that permeates some organizations. But, as we shall see, research shows that “all work and no play make Jack a dull boy.”

In ancient times, the dominant theory of humour was the Superiority Theory, where humour was used by one person to put down another, and in so doing, to make that one appear superior. Throughout history, this was the dominant way of using humour. Because this has been accepted in our society for so long, there are those who still remain suspicious of the use of humour.

More recently, however, another theory has emerged - the Incongruity Theory. Here, humour is described as being a mismatch between what we expect and what we experience. For example, you hear a knock at the door and upon opening it expect to view someone eyeball to eyeball. Instead, you see the family dog tapping its tail against the door. What you expected is not what you got, a perfect example of incongruity.

Think back to the last time when you met with relatives and friends after the funeral of a loved one, where stories were exchanged and laughter could be heard rippling through the crowd. What is happening? Tensions and sorrows are being lightened through fellowship and generous doses of humour.

Another valuable asset that humour can provide is mental distance, which is the ability to step back and look at situations in new and different ways. For example, observe a butterfly struggling to break out of its cocoon. Watching closely, we begin to observe the scene from a disengaged perspective. We should soon see the butterfly breaking out of the cocoon and spreading its beautiful wings in flight. This mental distance is particularly valuable to policemen, firefighters and health care professionals who daily face life-and-death situations. Visualizing difficult situations through humour can help them step back and look objectively at critical situations and be less negatively affected by them.

Another asset of humour is to provide distance in time. For example, when we are facing a challenging situation, our view is narrow, and all we see is the present discomfort and trouble. However, as time passes, we are able to look back at that difficult moment, experience less pain and even see some humour in it. Most importantly, therefore, the distance in time provided by humour can bring stability and emotional healing to our lives and to those around us.

Humour is also a valuable asset in the workplace. Managers who are effective in their business dealings realize that humour can break down barriers, and build team spirit and morale, while softening any message they must bring. Comedian, Ernie Kovacs said, "If you’re going to tell ‘em the truth, make ‘em laugh or they’ll kill you." An exaggeration, no doubt, but bad news that could bring stress can be softened by humour.

Humour wisely used can help make employees more receptive to business training. Training sessions presented in a relaxed and humorous manner cause participants to relax, respond positively to the material presented and so retain more of what is taught.

An innovative company was introducing a new computer program for its employees, a guaranteed recipe for stress. However, the company wisely began the process by soliciting humorous cartoons from employees relating to computer training, and offered prizes for the most humorous ones. They then chose to train first those employees whose sense of humour was keenest, who in turn trained the other employees. During the training sessions laughter could be heard throughout the organization, turning the entire procedure into an anticipated event.

Recently, a growing number of Fortune 500 Companies have been offering their employees "humour rooms" in which they can take a break from mental work, to relax and "play." These rooms are brightly painted, many with pool tables, humour videos and computer games, all to provide diversion for stressed workers. So far, the results have been positive, with the employees apparently feeling more relaxed and more productive. These companies are proving what philosopher John Dewey said, "To be playful and serious at the same time is possible, and it defines the ideal mental condition." To which I say "Good advice."

We have come so far from our childhood of fun and play, from the time when we as children laughed five hundred times a day to where most of us now laugh only fifteen times a day. What keeps us from releasing the "child within”? It probably is due to the seriousness of being an adult with all of the responsibilities we carry. However, if we look within, we can still find the "child" that is waiting to be released. But how can we do this? One way is to keep our eyes open and search for opportunities to laugh and have fun. We can read cartoon books, watch funny movies, hang out with humorous people and best of all, spend time with children. Should you not have children, I’m sure that you have friends that would gladly lend you theirs for the weekend.

As our lives get increasingly complicated, having a sense of humour can act as a buffer against stressful situations. Every day we can look for opportunities to see humour in the things that have the potential to negatively affect us. By doing this we can add hope and richness to our lives and to the lives of those around us.

Audrey is the “Stress Strategist,” who brings to your audience cutting-edge strategies and thought-provoking ideas, always with a touch of humour. Her motivating keynote and interactive breakouts are described as inspiring and energizing.

Her book: I Really Gotta Quit! Break Free from Eating Disorders & Other Addictions, together with her audio programs are available through her website. To order product, or to book “Nurse Audrey” to speak at your next meeting, email her at: audrey@possibilitiesnetwork.com, or contact her through her web site: www.possibilitiesnetwork.com , or call 1-866-484-2197

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