Humans are a sensitive bunch. We’re highly intelligent, emotional and hard-wired to care what others think of us. In fact, I’m already wondering if you’re going to like this article and I’ve barely started writing it. Case in point.
In a work setting it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to impress, to ‘out-prove’ or to solidify your status through promotions, job titles and LinkedIn updates. But, somewhere along the way we often lose our ability to let down our guard and… just have laugh.
There’s a well-known saying that laughter is the best medicine. Children find everything funny and in turn, we find children funny (and occasionally frustrating too, but that’s beside the point here). Studies have shown that children laugh up to 300 times a day. Yet, by the time we reach adulthood that number drops drastically to just 17. Why is that? And more importantly, what impact does this loss of laughter have on our well-being, especially in the workplace?
For many, work is seen as a serious, productivity-driven environment where laughter can feel out of place. However, laughter isn’t just good for the soul; it’s also essential for building strong connections, enhancing happiness and fostering a positive workplace culture.
Work to live or live to work?
When it comes to how we perceive work, people tend to fall into two camps: those who work to live, and those who live to work. For the former, work is simply a means to enjoy life outside of it, while the latter group often finds purpose and identity through their professional roles.
But regardless of which camp you fall into, there’s no denying that how we approach our work lives can deeply affect our sense of joy and fulfillment. Some people adopt a different “work persona,” bringing a more serious, professional version of themselves to the office while saving their true, relaxed self for home. Others are the same person at work and home, never shying away from a joke, no matter the setting. So, where does laughter fit in?
Studies show that teams that laugh together are not only more cohesive but also more productive. Laughter breaks down barriers, making it easier for people to relate to one another and communicate more openly. This is why injecting humour into work, no matter how formal the environment may seem, can make a profound difference.
After all, laughter is a universal language. You don’t even need to speak the same language to understand the humour in visual communications alone! A happy and connected team is a productive team. Research by Gallup found that employees who feel emotionally connected to their colleagues are more engaged and more likely to go the extra mile. In other words, when your workplace culture encourages moments of laughter and connection, it’s not just good for morale – it also boosts overall productivity.
What’s more? Laughter can help build resilience
In today’s fast-paced work environments where being ‘too busy’ is seen as a badge of honour – stress is inevitable. But laughter can act as a powerful antidote to that stress, creating a buffer that helps employees navigate challenges with greater resilience. A workplace that embraces humour is one that can better withstand setbacks and foster a sense of optimism, even when the going gets tough.
And, it’s no secret that a strong workplace culture is directly linked to attracting and retaining top talent. In a survey conducted by Glassdoor, 77% of employees said that they would consider a company’s culture before applying for a job. If your company is known for having a fun, supportive and inclusive environment, you’re more likely to not only attract great people but keep them.
The role of leaders in establishing workplace culture
While company culture is an intangible element of the workplace, it’s broadly established through the behaviours that are tolerated (and not tolerated) by management. So, creating a culture of laughter starts at the top. Leaders who make room for light-hearted moments – whether it’s through casual conversations, team-building activities, or having the ability to make fun of themselves – this sets the tone for the rest of the organisation. When employees see that their leaders value happiness and humour, it sends a message that they too can bring their true self to work.
Encouraging laughter doesn’t mean being unprofessional. Instead, it can be about recognising that a little humour can go a long way in making work feel more enjoyable. This balance creates a workplace where employees feel appreciated, engaged and motivated to give their best.
The takeaway?
If I could think of a good punchline joke, this is where I’d put it. But alas, at the end of the day, a culture that makes room for laughter is one that prioritises human connection, happiness and resilience. And this, in turn, leads to higher productivity, better retention rates and a stronger, more engaged team. So the next time you find yourself in a meeting, don’t be afraid to crack a smile or share a laugh. It might just be the key to building a workplace that people love coming to every day.
