The Underrated Power of Laughing at Yourself | Monique Bellamy | TEDxAbbotsford

Stand-up Comedy & Humor - Stand-up comedians often need to preface their jokes to ensure the audience understands their intent [2] - The formula of a joke involves a story, buildup, and a twist to elicit laughter by engaging both sides of the brain [5][6] - A stand-up comedian equates to being unemployed, often compensated with minimal amounts [7] Vulnerability & Connection - Nakedness is considered the ultimate position of vulnerability, evoking humility or self-affirmation [16] - Sharing personal stories, especially adversities, can foster connection and relatability with others [32] - Using humor to serve others can help people identify with the speaker and feel more comfortable with themselves [36] Personal Growth & Healing - Humor can be used as a coping mechanism to deflect feelings, hide insecurities, and suppress anger [25] - Humor can be channeled in the journey of healing and recovery [26] - Overcoming the fear of not being good enough is crucial for personal growth [29] - Shifting from self-deprecation to using humor from a place of self-worth is healthier [32] Benefits of Humor - Humor has physical benefits, such as releasing endorphins and oxytocin, which improve mood and promote connection [34][35] - Humor can help build resilience and face adversity with more ease [35][36]