Being humorous can work better than "being nice" in social situations for several reasons:
Breaking the ice: Humor can act as a great icebreaker. When you use humor, you lighten the mood and create a positive atmosphere, making it easier for people to feel comfortable and connect with you.
Bonding and rapport: Sharing laughter and humor can foster a sense of camaraderie and build rapport between individuals. When people laugh together, it creates a shared experience, leading to stronger social bonds.
Memorability: Humorous moments tend to be more memorable. People are more likely to remember someone who made them laugh or brought joy to a conversation, compared to someone who was simply being polite or nice.
Reducing tension: In certain situations, humor can diffuse tense or awkward moments. It allows people to step back from potentially sensitive topics and find common ground in lightheartedness.
Expressing intelligence and wit: A well-timed joke or clever remark can showcase intelligence and quick thinking, making the person using humor appear more engaging and interesting.
Attracting attention: Humor can make you stand out in a positive way. In social settings, being funny can draw attention and make you more approachable, leading to more opportunities for interaction.
Coping mechanism: Humor can be a coping mechanism during challenging times. People often use humor to deal with stress or difficult situations, and sharing it with others can create a sense of support and understanding.
However, it's essential to note that while humor can be an effective social tool, it should be used with sensitivity and appropriateness. Not everyone may share the same sense of humor, and some situations might call for more empathy and understanding rather than jokes. Balancing humor with genuine kindness and respect for others' feelings is crucial for maintaining healthy and meaningful social interactions.