Leading Through Change? Make Laughter Your Secret Leadership Superpower

April Fool’s Day has never been my favorite holiday, but laughter is one of my favorite parts of being human. Rather than dwelling on my dislike for practical jokes, I’m focusing on how much I love to laugh—and how it can strengthen teams and leadership effectiveness.

Laughter isn’t just good for the soul; it’s good for business. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter improves physical health, reduces stress, strengthens the immune system, and enhances mental well-being. In leadership, laughter fosters psychological safety, encourages collaboration, and helps teams navigate challenges with resilience.

In my family, laughter helps us bridge differences. We’re a strong-willed, independent-minded group with no shortage of opinions. When conflicts arise, humor often diffuses tension, helping us reconnect and move forward. The same principle applies to leadership—teams that laugh together can weather difficulties and challenges more effectively.

As leaders, we can use laughter strategically to build trust, cultivate emotional intelligence, and strengthen team dynamics. Here’s how:

1. Foster a culture of shared laughter, not exclusion. Laughter should bring people together, not single someone out. A team that can laugh at an unexpected challenge rather than assign blame is a team that can problem-solve with agility. I once led a team that invested in a CRM software platform that was way beyond our skill level. The result? A costly misstep that became an inside joke rather than a source of resentment. Our shared humor allowed us to move forward with adaptability rather than discouragement.

2. Encourage self-awareness through humor. Leaders who can laugh at themselves model humility and approachability. I often share stories of my own mishaps—like the time I tried to multitask by sorting and moving a huge pile of mail, only to drop everything in a chaotic pile. These moments remind us that mistakes are human and that self-deprecating humor can create an environment where team members feel safe to take risks and innovate.

3. Start with a smile. Not every moment calls for a belly laugh, but a simple smile can change the tone of an interaction. Smiling signals approachability, reduces stress, and fosters positive relationships. Sometimes, a well-timed grin can set the stage for difficult conversations, making space for constructive dialogue and shared understanding.

4. Incorporate laughter into team-building. Whether it’s through lighthearted icebreakers, sharing amusing stories, or even exploring unconventional practices like laughter yoga, laughter fosters connection. One of my favorite leadership exercises involves sharing a humorous personal anecdote at the start of a meeting. It breaks the ice, boosts morale, and reminds the team that we’re all in this together.

   
   

Laughter is more than a momentary mood booster—it’s a powerful leadership tool. It builds resilience, strengthens relationships, and fosters an environment where diverse perspectives can thrive. So, this April Fool’s Day (or any day), take a moment to bring joy into your leadership. Your team—and your bottom line—will thank you for it.