In These Mad Times We Cannot Forget The Importance Of Humor

It has been said by many observers of successful corporate leaders and business teams that humor is apparent in the best organizations. Those corporations or business teams that perform very well and accomplish their goals are typically noted for the humor displayed within the job.

Humorous leaders are quick to point out the humor in our lives, the absurdity of many situations and the contradictions between reality and our imagination. Our best leaders can laugh at themselves as well, and frequently do. This requires personal emotional strength and it demonstrates that the leaders are not controlled by what others think but have a strong enough self image and sense of inner security to allow and support jokes made at their expense.

In fact, it has been suggested in many reviews that the single best way to judge the health of a team or a business is by how much humor there is in the workforce. This is not about humor that is based on cruelty, humiliating remarks or ridicule of those unable to defend themselves or meant to be hurtful; this is about treating people – each other – as equals and acknowledging collective weaknesses, occasional mistakes and missed beats in a humorous manner.

It takes personal strength to use humor effectively and is a way men deflect serious issues, lightening the moment rather than wallowing in the pain, uncertainty and question. We can all gain from humor on the job. It brings management and the workforce closer together as it breaks down barriers and acts as the great equalizer, putting all involved on the same plane.

Humor can serve as a release of pressure, a way to deflect anger and exhaust frustration. It can be healthy and a good way to deal with difficult situations, frustration and even failure. Be it for good-natured fun or deflecting difficult emotions, humor has a place in the business arena and needs to be recognized.

A business environment without humor is bound to crash and burn before a business with humor and a business without humor will experience higher turnover and will not reach its goals as well as a business environment with humor.

Laughter is always good medicine, even in the business environment.