Learn to Laugh a Little

I'll be the first to admit I can be too serious sometimes. I frequently take myself and life in general too seriously. I tend to lean more towards being task-oriented than people-oriented. I live my life by my to-do list. I'm responsible, Type A, and the "mom friend." It's all too easy for me to buckle down and just try to get things done. In the midst of doing so, I often end up missing opportunities to have fun or enjoy the path I'm walking and the people walking it with me.

But I'm learning (oh, so very slowly) that I need regular, large doses of laughter in my life to make it full. A life without joy and laughter just isn't worth it.

I recently spent a full day with my best friends as we celebrated one of their birthdays, and I can honestly say I haven't laughed that much in a really long time. I desperately needed it. I was hit square between the eyes with the realization of what really matters that weekend. People matter. My to-do list doesn't.

Unfortunately, knowing that truth hasn't proven to be the cure-all for my natural inclination toward solitary productivity over time spent pouring into relationships. It's a step-by-step kind of journey I expect I'll be on for a while.

I'm not done. I'm right in the middle of it. But I'm sharing it because I suspect there are other people out there who are in the same boat and just might need to hear they're not alone.

I'm trying to work more laughter and fun into my regular rhythms to alleviate stress and enjoy life more, but it's a work in progress.

Laughter relieves my stress, reminds me that life is good, makes me step back to see my troubles from a new perspective, and puts me in a better mood. It allows me to really enjoy my life instead of just rushing through it. It's also something I have been able to share with others, whether watching a comedy video together or sending links to funny videos or pictures of adorable puppies in the middle of a stressful day. It has been such a blessing when I've allowed it to be.

Some of the outlets I keep going back to are YouTube channels. I love Jimmy Fallon, Ellen, Kid President, James Corden, and Kid Snippets. If you're in need of some comic relief, today check one of those out!

No matter what ails you, remember laughter really is the best medicine!

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. - Proverbs 17:22