What’s the difference between the two?
One of them (comedy) we associate with getting up and performing a series of jokes, stories and anecdotes, or that we are writers, stand up comics, improv entertainers or the likes. Sitcoms, comedy movies, most YouTube videos, comedy shows, SNL, and memes are all part of the comedy genre.
The other (humor) is much more about the laughter or smiles that are created without a performance, and possibly without anything prepared. It’s the day in and day out conversation that elicits laughter, snickers, giggles, and even a chortle. For many of you, it’s just you being you. And you may not even be trying.
Usually when I define the difference between the two, there’s a sigh of relief in the room. There’s less stress when we don’t feel like we have to “perform”. Many of you are already doing this and have a keen handle on it, however, you may not be fully optimizing what humor can do for you financially and romantically.
There’s no need to PUNCH them with the fist of comedy. Just bring the light touch of humor. Into all you do, with everyone you communicate with.
Defining “Sense of Humor”
I want to take a survey – you can answer in the comments below. How many of you have “Sense of humor” as a Top 5 requirement when listing the qualities you look for in a mate?
Top 3? Top 2? Anyone have it as the #1 MUST HAVE Quality?
I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t consider it a high priority. However, there’s not a lot of people out there developing their sense of humor to become more attractive.
So what is the definition of this most desirable trait?
If you only had to choose ONE of these answers – which one resonates with you more:
“I’m looking for a mate with a sense of humor. I know she/he has a sense of humor because they
- make me laugh. OR
- I can make them laugh
Research from University of Kansas took 51 random men and women and found that a “sense of humor” as defined by most women, means that they are looking for a man who can make them laugh.
And a “sense of humor” as defined by most men, means that they are looking for a woman who can laugh at them.
Those are two different definitions!
Beitknown, that this is a generalization of those studied: which means there are exceptions to this rule.
Humor Attraction
If a sense of humor is a desired trait that we are attracted to, would you agree that humor is a language we can use to “attract” other people? In this case we’re talking about a mate, however, look at the friends you hang out with. Do they make you laugh? Do they laugh at you? Is humor part of the “connection” you feel with them?
Humor Attraction is a real thing. We are drawn to people because of the connection to the emotion it provides.
So let’s take this “humor attraction” and point it towards the office. Not in a way that points romantically. But from the “attraction” stand point. What draws us towards someone?
Now remember, people have different definitions, which means we need to BOTH: Laugh and be laughed at. It creates a connection.
Years ago I studied with an acting coach, the late Elayne Stein, who taught me a very valuable lesson that I still apply today.
She said: “Always remember… that every “scene” we do – whether it’s a commercial, a play, a skit, a sketch, etc. – is about the relationship. And we define “relationship” by how two people feel about each other.”
In other words, a relationship is understood by the emotion(s) we have for another person.
Client Relationship
So if a salesman makes me laugh: I feel happy, he creates a positive connection with me, then I’m most likely going to buy.
If he’s all business and just trying to make a sale with no personality, no energy and no humor, I may not feel a connection to the product, service or company.
- 84% of people would rather do business with someone who has a sense of humor!
At the office, if there’s a co-worker who makes me happy, I’ll most likely want to work with that person. I may even seek that person out to keep my day “interesting”. However, if a co-worker makes me angry, I’ll do what I can to avoid them as much as possible. I’ll still do my work and interact with them as needed, after all it’s just business.
- Engaged employees are 31% more productive at work
- And have an average of 37% higher sales.
- 91% of Executives say a sense of humor is important for career advancement
It goes without saying that humor is a key to greater success. But I said it anyway.
Appropriate Humor
Before you leap into the comedy circus, here’s the lowdown—humor isn’t a one-size-fits-all getup. What makes one colleague ROFL might leave another annoyed. Think of it as a comedic wardrobe tailored to each individual’s taste. Sharpen your comedic radar by gauging your audience’s quirks, preferences, and vibes.
But keep this in mind: Comedy is for the stage and Humor is for your daily life. Meaning there are certain things that are meant for the stage and in front of an audience expecting SHOCK AND AWW. What a comedian would say on stage about a customer is not something you should replicate in person.
READ: https://jefrawls.com/this-kind-of-humor-destroys-marriages/ and apply the same principles to business.
Behind the corporate façade are real people with real feelings, craving connections that make the 9-to-5 hustle feel like a symphony. Humor isn’t just a punchline; it’s your ticket to building bonds that can stand up to any challenge. So, next time you’re staring down a spreadsheet abyss, activate your sense of humor and infuse some laughter in your work day—it’s the glue that sticks you and your customers, clients and coworkers.
Bring your Sense of Humor to Work!! It’ll PAY off!