"The human race has only one really effective weapon, and that is laughter. The moment it arises, all our hardnesses yield, all our irritations and resentments slip away and a sunny spirit takes their place." -- Mark Twain
A survey by Hodge-Cronin & Associates found that of 737 CEOs surveyed, 98 percent preferred job candidates with a sense of humor to those without. Another survey indicated that 84 percent of the executives thought that employees with a sense of humor do a better job than people with little or no sense of humor.
The benefits of a pleasant and happy workplace are that happy employees are more loyal and productive employees. The absenteeism and tardiness rate may decrease as people look forward to going to work. The turnover rate may decrease, as employees feel content and loyal to an organization. And the cost associated with illness may decrease as people experience the positive physiological and psychological effects of laughter.
Norman Cousins brought to our attention how laughter can be healing or reducing symptoms. You may recall that he had a serious and painful illness. He discovered that 10 minutes of laughter could lead to one hour that was pain-free.
Laughter releases endorphins that are more powerful than morphine. These endorphins can lead to a sense of well-being and optimism. In addition, humor and laughter can even bridge the gap between total strangers. The use of humor can even reduce tension in a stressful situation (as workplaces can sometimes be).
Six Reasons that laughter and fun can improve your work quality and your mental health:
- Laughter and Fun Break Up Boredom and Fatigue.
- Laughter and Fun Fulfill Human Social Needs.
- Laughter and Fun Increase Creativity and Willingness to Help.
- Laughter and Fun Fulfill the Need for Mastery and Control.
- Laughter and Fun Improve Communication.
- Laughter and Fun Break Up Conflict and Tension.
Affirmation:
"I will smile and laugh much more often each day this week. I will laugh so frequently that people will wonder why I'm so happy."
By Mary Rau-Foster
