“Nothing shows a man’s character more than what he laughs at.” - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Though it’s purpose is still somewhat unknown to us, laughter is very important in our daily lives. It relieves our stress, helps us to enjoy another’s company, and can make other people laugh as well. Just the simple act of laughing everyday is enough to make one feel better about their lives, no matter what your living situation.

So in order to bring laughter to your day, I’ve complied a short list of sure-fire ways to get yourself rofling (rolling on the floor laughing for those less informed).

Watch funny shows on television

Kicking back and watching your favorite television shows is a great way to make yourself laugh. For example, you could watch sitcoms. A sitcom has everything you need for mental amusement rolled up into one half-hour package. My personal favorite is Seinfeld. Though this show has been ended for quite a while, because it’s so funny, I can still catch it online or on television everyday.

If sitcoms aren’t your fancy, watch a cartoon instead. To this day, I still watch cartoons (Ed, Edd, n Eddy; The Simpsons; King of the Hill, Futurama, and even PowerPuff Girls  ). Though watching cartoons may seem childish to the majority of us, no one can deny that they are still exceptionally funny. If you think yourself too mature to watch cartoons, view them with your kids or a younger sibling.

Go to comedy clubs

Watching television is one thing, but actually going to a comedy club is another. Comedians’ entire career rests on them making you laugh.

There’s a flavor of comedy for everyone to enjoy. You can find anything from the “everyday life” variety such as Seinfeld or more of the risqué, nearly-crossing-the-line types like Dave Chappelle (As you can tell, I’m really into comedians).

Also, the fact that you’re laughing with strangers also helps getting you to loosen up feel like apart of the comedian’s act. Your not just staring at the television anymore listening to the recording of a very amused audience (usually present on sitcoms).

Reminisce with your friends and family

The next best thing to making yourself laugh is to make others laugh as well (Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a comedian). I’ve learned that this is best done by remembering funny moments in your life and sharing them with family and friends. Remember that the most embarrassing memories can also be the funniest ones. Gather everyone together and talk about the things you felt embarrassed about in the past, but now feel silly remembering. It’s a great way to learn from your past experiences while growing past the self-conscious barriers that once held you back.

Many of us underestimate the power of a good laugh. Thousands are invested every year when people pay for overly expensive services or luxuries to relieve stress. Then after all is said and purchased, they begin to wonder, “Why don’t I feel better?”

The cure is simple. All you have to do is laugh.