Recent workshop introduces laughter's role in overcoming stress

To introduce an alternative approach to stress relief and leadership, the Montana Leadership Institute (MLI) at MSU recently held “The Humor Habit,” a workshop led by MLI's Daniel Lanske and Jadon Belitz and hosted by author, guest speaker and advocate for laughter, Paul Osincup. Aimed at integrating humor into leadership skills and daily life, the event targeted the academic community during the demanding midterm season.

Kass Thompson, a representative from MLI, underscored the strategic timing of the session. "Introducing humor as a stress management technique aligns perfectly with the heightened stress levels among our students and faculty at this time," Thompson said. The decision to invite Osincup was influenced by his compelling TEDx MSU talk last November. 

"His presentation had a profound impact, and we immediately saw the value in bringing him to our campus," Thompson said.

Osincup's workshop served as a meticulously planned initiative that highlighted the significance of humor in alleviating stress, boosting resilience and enhancing overall well-being. "Our mission is to inspire students at MSU to emerge as leaders who act as catalysts for positive change. An event that focuses on leadership through the lens of happiness fits our objectives perfectly," Thompson said.

The session featured interactive exercises through which Osincup offered attendees practical tools to incorporate humor into both their leadership styles and personal lives. Emphasizing the need for actionable strategies alongside inspiration, Osincup said, "Most people, whether in academia or not, want more than just inspiration. I talk about the power of humor, happiness and positivity, so of course there will be a lot of laughs and inspiration, but it must be combined with thoroughly researched, evidence-based, practical tools people can use or it will all feel like empty calories."

A notable technique introduced by Osincup involved reframing difficult situations with humor in order to encourage a lighter perspective on challenges. "Don't live your life as an actor in a drama just to reach the end to find out you were the director and it could have been a comedy,” he explained.

Osincup enriched the workshop with personal stories, strategic insights and data that underscores humor's essential role in everyday life. He pointed to the economic impact of workplace unhappiness, noting that: "last year, unhappy workers cost the U.S. economy over $1.9 trillion in lost productivity."

After noting the inefficiency found in happiness's absence Osincup said, “I don't believe work or life needs to be that way and I want to show people how they can control much of their own wellbeing and happiness.” 

The event's success was evident in the packed venue and the positive feedback it received. "It's a good sign that after ninety minutes, nobody had left. My favorite reactions were from attendees who told me they were excited to start putting some of the humor habit exercises I shared into practice in their lives," Osincup reflected.

After the session, Osincup introduced his latest book, "The Humor Habit," which shares the workshop's name and theme. He also invited attendees to an after-party held in the same room for further discussion and networking.

Looking forward, the MLI is planning additional events focused on leadership and personal development, including a Communicating with Confidence Workshop and the Winter Leadership Summit — Mind Over Matter. 

"Leadership can be making a positive difference in your friends' day, or starting a community organization. It can be whatever position you're in, you can lead from any seat,” Thompson said.