Try smiling and laughing more. [1] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Think about opening up to others by sharing an embarrassing story about yourself. Be cautious, however, as self-deprecating jokes could make you or others feel uncomfortable. Stick with something that is in good taste.
Try to find inspiration and material in the absurd and strange aspects of everyday life. What do you see strange in popular music, fashion, the holidays, and current events?
Make a habit to spend more time around funny people, and offer to share a funny story or joke of your own. [5] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Anecdotal comedy refers to funny personal stories that may or may not be embellished. Dry humor is delivered with no expression and matter-of-fact, while the material itself is very funny. Hyperbolic comedy is characterized by massive exaggeration. Ironic comedy is when the meaning of the joke is the opposite of the actual meaning.
Do not be afraid to share something you think is funny. While others will not always understand your humor, you can use their reactions to help improve your style, content, and timing. Reflect on what makes you laugh. If you find something funny, share it with a friend who you think will find this funny as well. Share a funny episode from a movie, television show, book or comic strip.
Be aware that humor changes with age. [8] X Research source Older individuals are less likely to laugh at sexual or aggressive types of humor, while the right younger audience may appreciate it. Note that inside jokes, particular group stories, or practical jokes are usually best shared with close friends. You do not want to make someone feel left-out because they don’t understand the context. Unless you share similar views, avoid joking about religion or politics. [9] X Research source Use humor to make people feel more comfortable and positive, do not single them out or belittle their appearance or beliefs. [10] X Research source
If you notice something funny, do not wait too long to point it out. Seize the moment! Asides, which are sarcastic or funny comments inserted into conversation, work well when delivered quickly. Keep stories short and simple, as too much background or too many tangents will distract the audience.
It is not recommended that you begin by making jokes about someone else. If you are with someone who is able to laugh at themselves, you can gently poke fun at them after you have done the same to yourself. Make sure you don’t go too far, as this will turn a light-hearted situation into an awkward one.
A good rule of thumb is to punch up, not down. Making fun of a person or entity in a position of power, e. g. a bully, is punching up. Making fun of a person or entity that lacks power, e. g. an oppressed group, is punching down. Punching up challenges the status quo, while punching down reinforces it.
If you are trying to are collaborating with someone for the first time, delivering criticism, or supporting a controversial idea or plan, humor can be a great way to get their attention without seeming pretentious or superior. [14] X Research source
Possibly offensive topics include physical appearance or shortcomings, oppressed groups (e. g. women and minorities), physical or mental disabilities, and references to bodily functions and sex.
