The Secret to Successful Stressful Situations

The Answer? Laughter. Seriously. It is the key to a good team, to easing tensions, and for simply brightening up your life. It is a body language tool that you can use to your advantage whether intentionally or not. Whether you have a hearty boom, a snickering smile, or continuous stream of haha's, a laugh is almost as contagious as a smile. It can turn a situation into one of friendship and personal. More specifically, a laugh:

1. Show you're having a good time
• My cube mates are loud. But they are our support team and when I hear giggling, see jokes on whiteboards, and can join hallways gatherings I know it is a good thing. They obviously are enjoying themselves at work and there's nothing bad about that! It creates an environment of happiness.
2. Show you're human and make mistakes
• Being able to laugh at yourself is important. And if you physically and literally do that in front of others, it can put them at ease. "Haha, I knew that." or a "woops" with a smile. Instead of getting stressed out, laugh it off and get to fixing it!
3. Show your personality
• Laughter demonstrates what you find entertaining, funny, and worthy of your continued attention. If a comedian, speaker, or colleague jokes about the weather or the competitor's shortcomings, you find a commonality which is vital in growing relationship. You will hang out with people that you enjoy being around more so be one of those people!