A Life Lesson I Learned In Middle School

Summary

• I realized back in middle school that making self-deprecating jokes like the class clown did not suit me because I was a straight-A student and good at sports; context matters.
• Using the wrong type of humor can backfire, as people's perception of you affects how they receive your jokes.
• A lesson I learned is that the medium and manner in which you deliver a message greatly impact its reception and credibility.
• In a fraternity joke, we noted that there's nothing funny about an in-shape body, reinforcing the idea that context and audience expectations are crucial when making jokes.
• People judge not just what you say, but how you say it—this informs their decision on whether to trust and support you.

Video

How To Take Action

I would suggest being careful with humor in your business or personal life because it can really backfire if it doesn't match who you are. If you're good at something, making fun of it might not make you look humble; it might just confuse people. When you want to make someone laugh, think about what fits with your image and what doesn't.

Another good way of doing things is to really focus on how you deliver your messages. It's not just about what you say; it's how you say it that makes people decide if they trust you. If you're clear and honest in your tone, people are more likely to take you seriously.

Also, remember that people are watching and judging everything—not just the words, but the whole package. So, be mindful of what your words and actions are saying about you. Whether it's a joke or a business pitch, make sure it all lines up with how you want to be seen.

Lastly, pay attention to who you're talking to. If something's funny or interesting to you but not to your audience, it won't work. Know what your audience likes and expects from you. This can help build trust and support because they see that you understand them.

So, to put this into action:

• Match your jokes to your personality and achievements.
• Pay attention to your tone and delivery when talking.
• Be conscious of the image you present through your words and actions.
• Tailor your messages to your audience's likes and expectations.

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