Fearlessly Funny

Here’s a funny story. Comedian Adam Carolla said: “The reason why you know more funny dudes than funny chicks is that dudes are funnier than chicks.”

Hilarious, right? Not!

Former stand-up comedienne and motivational speaker, Diana Jordan doesn’t agree. “Women are definitely as funny as men and in many cases, more so.”

Historically, women have been reluctant to use humor out of fear they wouldn’t be taken as seriously as their male counterparts.

However, the health benefit of a few daily chuckles is staggering – from lowering blood pressure to decreasing stress.

Laughter releases dopamine (which elevates mood), improves creativity and problem solving. It also instills a sense of community in a work setting.

“If there’s a work environment where someone is funny, where there’s laughter and humor, there are less sick days, more productivity,” says Jordan. “The health benefits of laughing are just unbelievable.”

So, whether you’re retelling an over-the-top anecdote or watching the latest viral video, don’t be afraid of letting your funny side shine.

And you already know telling insensitive or inappropriate jokes, is never funny.

Encouraging women to exercise their funny bone, a Huffington Post Op-Ed summed it up nicely: “Maybe it’s simply that men are from Mars and women are from someplace significantly better. I want a better quality of life and I am not ashamed to admit it.”

Bonus PINK Link: Read our Online Exclusive on another stress buster – exercise!

Do you crack jokes in the office?

By Carmen Harbour

“Laugh…It’s the sweetest thing one can do for oneself and one’s fellow human beings.” Maya Angelou