Storytelling vs Humor


It all started with a simple joke at the dinner table.

My six-year-old son, in his innocent humor, asked, "What is a cow playing an instrument doing?" The punchline, "He is making music," sent him into peals of laughter. This moment was a gentle reminder of how pure and effortless humor can be in its most basic form.

However, as we grow older, the dynamics of humor change dramatically. The use of humor in adult communication, especially in a professional setting, can be a double-edged sword. When humor is natural, it adds a delightful flavor to conversations, as evident in my playful use of a 'moo point' pun. But, when forced or unnatural, humor can undermine authenticity and authority. This is particularly true in written or spoken communication, where the intent and tone can be easily misconstrued.

Storytelling vs Humor | Storytelling Tips

Seinfeld, Storytelling, and Shared Laughter

One of my favorite pastimes is watching my husband watch reruns of "Seinfeld." His laughter, especially how his eyes crinkle in the corners, is infectious. It's a little bittersweet, though; I can't help but feel a twinge of jealousy seeing Jerry Seinfeld effortlessly make him laugh like that. I yearn to evoke that kind of humor myself, but let's face it - not many can reach the comedic heights of Seinfeld. This brings me to an important realization: in the battle of Storytelling vs. Humor, storytelling is a serious contender. You might not need to be as funny as Seinfeld because the power of a good story can have an equally compelling effect.

Comedy club amateur night, here you come. Well, you may not want to go that far... but if you do, be sure to invite me.

The Power of Storytelling Over Jokes

Jokes are tricky; they can either hit the mark or fall flat, risking alienation or offense. In contrast, storytelling is an art that is more engaging, relatable, and far less risky. Telling a story that resonates with your audience, something familiar and true to their experiences, is often more impactful than a forced joke.

An example I often cite is from a presentation I gave in my home state, Minnesota. I shared a story about my Southern California husband experiencing Minnesota's winter and the city's skyways for the first time. The story, devoid of slapstick humor, was amusing because it was relatable and visualizable for the audience. It wasn't just a story; it was a shared experience.

Laughter from Relatability, Not Ridicule

When the audience laughs at a story, they're not laughing at the material or the speaker, but at something that resonates within themselves. This laughter, born from relatability and shared experiences, carries more weight and meaning. If a universally familiar story isn't at hand, it's better to share any story that strikes a chord, rather than resorting to a joke.

Developing the Skill of Storytelling and Humor

Humor and storytelling are skills that can be honed over time, not innate talents. Taking cues from seasoned comedians like Jerry Seinfeld or Jay Leno, who meticulously test their material, one can learn to refine their storytelling. By frequently sharing stories in different settings - be it in emails, meetings, or networking events - you can gauge audience reactions and adapt accordingly.

This practice helps in understanding what aspects of your story connect with listeners, what parts evoke laughter, and what should be left out. It's about developing a discipline in storytelling, a journey towards finding humor in authenticity rather than forcing it.

Embrace Storytelling, Leave the Punchlines Behind

Use storytelling as your tool for engaging and connecting with your audience. The need for a punchline fades away when your story itself carries the essence of humor, relatability, and authenticity. Remember, a little humor goes a long way, but the art of being funny is no laughing matter. Embrace your stories and let them speak for themselves. Until next time, keep sharing those stories and watch how they transform your communication.

(You can find more on this topic at Inc.com Why No One Laughs at the Jokes in Your Presentation)


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