As you’re walking to work or to the bus, make a point of smiling at each stranger you pass on your way. It’s a good way to practice and get ready for laughing, and it’s also polite. If you’re having trouble even smiling, try making a list of things that you’re grateful for. That can make it easier to see more of the positive things around you. [3] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source
Get started with 3 short “ha” sounds, and do several sets of this forced laugh. You’ll be surprised at how quickly forced laughs can turn into a legitimate case of the giggles. Try thinking of something you found funny in the past while you’re doing this. You can also push out a chuckle when someone else makes a joke, even if you don’t think it’s funny. They might be able to tell that it isn’t a real laugh, but that in itself might get the both of you laughing for real!
Try checking YouTube channels from funny accounts. For instance, America’s Funniest Videos (AFV) has a YouTube channel where they feature the same types of family-friendly videos they show on TV. Videos of people laughing might spark a giggle, as well.
For instance, try watching a new movie from a funny actor you like, or check out an episode of a sitcom you haven’t seen before. Recreate your childhood by laughing at old Saturday morning cartoons like Tom & Jerry or Looney Tunes.
Don’t be afraid to branch out! You might love written comedy, or you might prefer dark humor, improv, or standup specials. You might also find that you laugh the hardest when you’re watching classic comedians like Carol Burnett, Gene Wilder, or the Marx brothers. Even if it seems funny at the time, try to avoid humor that makes someone else the butt of the joke—it is really cruel to the other person.
Remember, the harder you laugh, the more likely it is that other people will join in with you! If you’re uptight about laughing and constantly worried what people will think of you, it’s hard to really let go and have fun. If you’re hanging out with the kind of people who make fun of someone for laughing, find new friends.
If you can’t change who you’re spending time around, try changing the tone of the conversation. If someone is talking about things they don’t like, talk about things you do like, instead, for example. Spending time with kids or pets can be a great way to find yourself spontaneously giggling. You don’t necessarily have to dump your unfunny friends. Remember, there’s a time and place for everything, so it’s okay if your friends aren’t constantly laughing.
You might also plan activities that will get everyone laughing, like playing a funny board game or doing a fun activity like playing mini golf or going bowling.
Everyone mucks up at some point, and it doesn’t have to define you as a person. Laughing at yourself helps show yourself and the people around you that it’s no big deal.
For instance, it’s fine to spend al little time each day catching up on current events, but don’t overdo it. The constant flow of negative stories can really bring you down. Similarly, if there’s anything upsetting that you’re dealing with, set aside some time every day to work through those feelings or strategize about solutions. If you’re a newspaper addict, start with the funnies and the human interest stories before you get too deep into the depressing stuff. Switch back and forth to keep your mood light.
Try to keep funny material on hand for when you have a bad day. For instance, you might bookmark your favorite funny YouTube videos, or you might buy a book from your favorite comedian and keep it until a day you really need a pick-me-up. [14] X Research source Treating laughter as an exercise will keep your funny muscles strong. Practice laughing with a wide grin and a deep belly chuckle. You’ll feel better afterward.
