Essay on “Humour” Complete Essay, Paragraph, Speech in 600 Words for Class 9, 10, 12 and Graduation Students.

Humour

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

With humour, we lighten up each day, and we find common ground with others. We build healthy relationships with others by knowing what to say and what to do that helps and what hinders a conversation. Humour often takes us to the edge of uncertainty when we exaggerate, or tease others to make our point. When humour 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 ourselves. Most importantly, we create common ground. However, when we lose our sense of humour, we often get critical or defensive, and, we often get critical of ourselves for what was said, and how it was said.

Humour 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, humour can be adjusted to suit our personality.

The challenge for everyone is to become more aware of how to add humour, and when to avoid it. Too much humour, like too much spice, often annoys others. Humour that is perceived as insensitive often leads others to shut down, or become argumentative. But when we each maintain our sense of humour, we look for the good in others and in ourselves. To ensure that our humour is welcomed by others, we need to combine our humour with speaking clearly and listening effectively.

Have you ever noticed that successful individuals often use self-deprecating humour to humble themselves, without putting themselves down? These individuals understand that every person has strengths and weaknesses and that self-deprecating humour invites others to feel more confident and equal. Having humour 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.

If you can’t think of a humourous comment that will be helpful, you can try looking for clarification by mirroring back their words and clarifying their point. Assume that there is always something that you can find to appreciate when you are looking for common ground. Focus on preventing an argument. Remember, humour is often not the best choice to handle conflict.

Opportunities to add a touch of humour happen all of the time. In December when I visited my friend Tim in the hospital, I came wearing antlers from the Dollar Store. And when I was accepted into the graduate program at the University of Waterloo, I wrote my acceptance letter as a poem. In each situation, my small change from the everyday stirred others to smile, and expect positive conversations in the future.

Much of our humour comes from reconnecting to our playful inner child. For many of us, it only takes a playful voice tone, wearing a funny hat, or holding a stuffed toy to get started. Take a risk. Add a bit more humour, and do it in the way that is right for you.