100 simple things we take for granted: 8# Humor

"Laughter is the best medicine." We've all heard this clichéd remark, but how many of us take it seriously? Well, not enough of us. Studies show 64% of Americans smile less than 20 times a day at home (you know, the place where you relax) and 72% in the work place, where they spend most of their time. And that's just smiling, not even laughing. Granted most of the people not smiling are rappers, starving white girls and vegans but the figures are still profound.

I was amazed to see how much literature there is available on the benefits of a sense of humor:

Firstly, on health. Which not only makes sense, but is also life saving. If stress is the number one killer in our society and laughter alleviates stress, then clearly it's better to have a sense of humor than to be on blood pressure pills for the rest of your life. It's also cheaper and less dependent on a crappy health care system that is probably the reason you are frowning in the first place.

Secondly, in your business. If your employees are happy and less stressed, then you're going to have a better output. Which means you make more money and spend less on health care packages and "get well soon" cards. Unless they are African. Studies have shown Africans are 567% more playful and non-productive than any other cultural group regardless of working conditions.

Thirdly, people are drawn towards people with a sense of humor. As potential mates, as friends, as leaders and even as product suppliers. If an ad makes you laugh instead of making you want to hurl something at the T.V. you're more likely to buy the product. This is because a shared understanding of a joke increases feelings of intimacy and camaraderie (even if it's with a megatronics corporation) and generally indicates high cognitive function. 

So next time you feel down and depressed, read Stuff-About.com. and try smiling, even if it's difficult because you've just come back from your 184th round of botox and it might crack your make-up. It will make you feel better. Soon you'll even be able to progress to laughter and who knows? you might actually live.