How to get your sense of humor back
Can’t remember the last time you laughed? We can help.
A lot is going on in the world right now, and a lot of it is not so great. And it's completely normal to lose your sense of humor when times are tough – to feel a bit out of your Groov. But while laughing may not seem like much of a priority at the moment, sometimes it’s one of the best things you can do for your wellbeing. Laughing can help reduce anxiety, anger, stress, and tension and even increase your pain tolerance.
If you're struggling to find the funny side of life, here are some ideas to help you rediscover your sense of humor and weave more laughter into your day.
Create space
It’s hard to laugh when you’re in a rush. Laughter requires time and space in your schedule. Try to plan for moments of laughter in your daily routine, such as:
Watching funny videos before breakfast
Unwinding at the end of the day with a funny podcast
Calling a friend who makes you laugh
Remember, laughing is super good for you, so it's OK to prioritize it over other things.
Give yourself permission
Do you ever feel guilty for laughing? Especially when life feels tough? Try to remember that it's OK to feel multiple emotions at once. For example, you can be anxious about valid concerns while still finding joy in things that make you laugh.
Try this: Write yourself a 'permission slip' for laughter and place it somewhere you can see it daily.
Get to know your sense of humor
Does the 'slipping on a banana skin' type of humor appeal to you? Or do you crack up at dry, witty banter? There are so many pathways to laughter, and everyone's sense of humor is wildly different.
Try this: Take time to reflect on what you find funny. Jot down your favorite comedians, shows, and scenarios, then actively seek out this type of humor.
Make time to Connect
We tend to laugh more when we’re around people than when we’re alone. Make time to Connect– one of our 6 Pillars of Wellbeing – and you’ll likely find that laughter flows from there.
Try this: Arrange to catch up with a favorite friend or family member in the next week or two.
Let the laughter out
Without even noticing it, a lot of us hold back when it comes to laughing. When we see or hear something funny, we may let a smile slip, but often that's it! By concentrating on strengthening our sense of humor and embracing it when you feel laughter coming on, you're more likely to reap all the rewards that come from it. And it'll probably catch on to those around you, too.
Try this: Practice mindfulness so you can get better at spotting moments for laughter – and relaxing into them!
Channel your inner child
While studies are inconclusive on how much children laugh on average each day, there's no question they do it far more than adults. It can help to look at things from a child's point of view.
Try this: Think of something that would make a child laugh. Chances are, it’ll make you laugh, too!
Seek support
Losing your sense of humor could be a sign of depression and/or anxiety. There's absolutely no shame or stigma in seeking support, and we encourage you to reach out to someone if you're having trouble finding joy in your day-to-day life.