**What would we do without humor? How would we enjoy talks with others if we did not use humor to invite a smile or a laugh? And how would we manage the times when we feel sad and alone?

With humor we lighten up each day, and we find common ground with others. We build healthy relationships with others by knowing what to say and to do that helps, and what hinders, a conversation. Humor often takes us to the edge of uncertainty when we exaggerate, or tease others to make our point. When humor is successful, we build trust and cooperation. We discover that we are not alone, we learn to accept our mistakes, and we look for the good in others and in our selves. Most important, we create common ground.

However, when we lose our sense of humor, we often get critical or defensive, and we blame others or ourselves for what was said, and how it was said.

Humor is an essential skill needed to communicate well with others. A few well chosen words get the attention of others and make a serious point without their getting defensive. Whether we prefer to be the centre of attention or shy and quiet, humor can be adjusted to suit our personality.

Having humor helps us keep our perspective, stay responsive to others, and resolve differences. Do you already have some things that you say to diffuse tension? Words like "At times like this, my uncle used to say…" can help the conversation to become less confrontational. **


"Facebook just sounds like a drag, in my day seeing pictures of peoples vacations was considered a punishment."
– Betty White


"My favorite machine at the gym is the vending machine."
– Caroline Rhea

"Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?"
– George Carlin

"A black cat crossing your path signifies that the animal is going somewhere."
– Groucho Marx

"I always wanted to be somebody, but now I realize I should have been more specific."
– Lily Tomlin