The power of laughter in reducing stress is undeniable; it triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, and decreases stress hormones, allowing for relaxation and recharging. Increasing humour in the workplace could enhance team spirit, prevent burnout, and improve overall work culture and morale.

Humour also significantly improves communication among team members by breaking down barriers, making individuals more approachable, and facilitating open and honest interactions for teamwork and collaboration. A light-hearted atmosphere where employees are happy and less stressed fosters creativity, innovation, and better problem-solving skills.

The shared moments of laughter create strong bonds between you and your colleagues but also have physical health benefits. Laughing improves your blood flow, boosts immunity, and can even relieve pain, leading to a healthier and, consequently, more productive you.

It’s crucial to ensure that workplace humour is inclusive and respectful, aimed at creating a positive environment where everyone feels comfortable and valued, without compromising anyone’s dignity or causing discomfort.

Here are a few suggestions to bring more laughter into your work environment:

• Kick-off team meetings with a fun icebreaker. It could be a humorous anecdote, a joke of the day, or a quirky question that everyone answers in turn. This sets a positive tone for the meeting and encourages everyone to contribute in a relaxed atmosphere.

• Set up a physical or digital humour board where employees can post cartoons, funny quotes, or amusing stories. It can become a go-to place for a quick laugh and a way to share a bit of personal flair and creativity.

• Suggest team-building activities that are known for inducing laughter, such as improv workshops, fun outdoor games, or a friendly competition with a humorous twist.
• Take advantage of the myriad of unofficial funny holidays throughout the year, such as National Doughnut Day or Talk Like a Pirate Day. Celebrating these quirky holidays with food, a dress-up event or a light-hearted competition will bring a sense of fun and anticipation to the workplace.

The goal is to add fun and reduce stress, not to distract from work or make anyone uncomfortable, so it’s vital to be inclusive and mindful of everyone’s boundaries. We challenge you to chat with your peers and to make a list of suggestions to add ‘LOL’ today!

If you are not feeling the joy, and are not yourself, you may be depressed or suffering from burnout or anxiety. LifeAssist has confidential counsellors available for you to find ways to lift your spirits. Please reach out and find your humour again.