You often hear the defense, “I’m not laughing at you! I’m laughing with you!” But I think there’s something to be said for laughing at oneself, even if it might be hard. This is something I’ve struggled with a bit, and I’m making a conscious effort to improve. We all mess up, say silly things, or do something we wish we hadn’t. We’re embarrassed, so we’re inclined to get grumpy about it. But here’s why it’s a thousand times better to laugh instead:

LAUGHTER OVER ANGER

It’s actually scientifically-proven that laughter really is the best medicine. According to The Huffington Post, people who laugh more show “considerably lower levels of cortisol, the ‘stress hormone,'” and that “a sense of humor can protect against heart disease.” Once you forgive yourself, and allow yourself to see the humor in an embarrassing situation, you’ll feel much better laughing than you will stewing in anger.

YOU’LL HAVE AN EASIER TIME PUTTING UP WITH THE TEASES

Everyone has those people in their family or friend group who incessantly tease. We love them, but sometimes, they drive us nuts. When you’re comfortable laughing at yourself and your quirky qualities they tease you about, everyone has a better time. Rather than harboring a pent-up bitterness towards them, be good-natured. Everyone else will think you are the better for it.

YOU WON’T BE SO HARD ON YOURSELF

In general, it’s very unwise to be constantly beating yourself up. You’re only human, and you’re inclined to make mistakes every once in a while— or even all the time. If you’re so critical of how you appear to other people that you’re instantly offended when they tease you, you’re probably equally demanding of your performance at school or work, how skilled you are at any activity, or how successful your personal life is. It’s unhealthy to be so critical of yourself. Think about it: would you be as hard on a friend who got a D on a test, can’t make a decent meal, or is extremely gullible. Just as it’s important to be nice to others, it’s important to be nice yourself, too.

So instead of gritting your teeth and stewing in anger when you make a mistake, just laugh. Take a leaf out of Lucy and Ethel from I Love Lucy’s books and don’t be afraid to mess up! You’ll live a lot happier and more entertaining life. Just try it and see!

Are you looking for a vina to laugh with? Download Hey! VINA. And share your quirky, laughable qualities with us in the comments below!

(Featured image via The Odyssey)