Inspiring Workplaces 
The Way Work Ought to Be!

#1,063 - March 19, 2025

When you consider the myriad of positive benefits associated with humor, leading with laughter is no joke!

Research cited by The World Economics Forum found that employees who watched a comedy clip (or who listened to comedy on their commute) before working were 10% more productive than those who did not. As my grandmother used to say, "That's no small muffins!"   

Humor is also a proven way to foster creativity and innovation and solve problems more effectively. Yes, "Ha + Ha = AHA!".  The research suggests that when people are laughing they are far more open to exploring novel ideas, they're more curious, and they generate more ideas. 

Levity-fueled workplaces experience higher employee retention rates, lower absenteeism rates, and higher engagement scores.

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology reveals that leaders who incorporate humor in their daily interactions foster greater team performance and higher satisfaction levels. 

And studies show that when leaders practice safe, positive, (humor that laughs with people, never at people) and self-effacing humor they are seen as more approachable, more confident, and more trustworthy. 

Remember, leadership has nothing to do with your job title or position on the organizational tree. Everyone has the capacity to lead, so whether you are a front line employee or a manager overseeing other humans, remember the importance of bringing your most human and humane characteristic along for the ride - your unique, wonderful, life-affirming sense of humor.