Definition
We feel amused when we encounter humorous ideas, novel situations, or things that make us laugh.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Amusement occurs when we're having fun with new, silly, or surprising things that feel safe. It helps us relax, brings us closer to other people, and helps us think in more creative ways.
◈ How It Shows Up
“That’s hilarious!”A quick exhale or full laughterA playful, teasing tone of voiceTrying to maintain composureA smirk or a broad grin
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Let the laugh out, it'll fade
- Share with others who “get you”
- Own your missteps gracefully
- If you can't laugh right now, you can: Focus on who you can tell later Look for some serious takeaways Take a quick break/walk
Bad Ideas
- Mock others with humor
- Use humor to avoid accountability
- Let sarcasm erode trust
- Alienate others with inside jokes
- Repeat a bit until it annoys others
- Hold double standards for humor
- Overexplain a joke