English writer and social critic Charles Dickens has once
said, “It is a fair, even handed, noble
adjustment of things, that while there is infection in disease and sorrow,
there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good
humor.”
There is probably not a single person who doesn't enjoy humor. A dose of good humor can lighten up any situation which is why humor is a great asset to any relationship.
My best and closest friend is my wife Anu. I do not know many
husbands who say that about their wives. One of the things that
make us good friends is our openness to correction from each
other. Of course no one likes to be corrected and neither do we. But why we are
open to correction from each other is because we add two special ingredients
while giving it. We often mix it with
love and a touch of humor. That’s why most of our fights end with a laugh. Let's put it this way, the world laughs at some of the most stupid things we do
so why shouldn't we laugh at ourselves?
H-Humor
I must admit, listening to
correction about the mistakes that we have done is one of the most difficult
things to do. But in our case, listening to each other with love added with a touch of humor makes it easier to listen.
Psychologist Fr.
John Antony writes, “Laughing acts as
a signal for intimacy. Laughter is rewarding in the sense that the individual
will be liked, and accepted as a member of the group. Humor
in working groups usually eases tensions, hardship and boredom of work,
increases job satisfaction, improves social relationships and results in more
cooperation and productivity.”
Take Away Principle:
Humor is a powerful source for bonding.
It can lighten up any situation thereby improving and strengthening the
relationship.
Tips on being humorous:
1. Look to add humor every time
there is increasing tension between individuals.
2. Be sensitive.
What is humorous to one person may not be to the other.
3. Stop taking yourself so
seriously.
4. Take it in good light when
someone laughs at you. Remember they are laughing because they are comfortable
with you.
5. If you’re uncomfortable with
them laughing at something, don’t react. Bring it up with them in private.
