Laughter is the best medicine, especially if there’s no medicine around.

In leadership, one of the greatest skills we can learn is the ability to laugh, especially at ourselves.

One mistake so many young leaders make is taking themselves too seriously.

I did.

I wanted to be the best leader possible and my reputation was something I crafted and guarded much to the detriment of others.

I was self-focused and forgot the simple truth that I was leading people.

People can sense a leader’s mood, temperament and security.

Secure, confident and joy-filled leaders are easy to follow.

Insecure, uncertain, and moody leaders make it nearly impossible.

Leaders must learn to laugh… especially at themselves.

Here are a few quick ways:

• Embrace your humanity – humans fail and make mistakes. Understand it, own it and have a chuckle about your own inadequacy.
• Chart your progress – I love to go back and read old stuff I’ve written. Leadership lessons and sermons from years ago make me laugh.
• Poke fun at yourself – Steve Martin, one of my entertainers, is credited with discovering a new brand of comedy. What kind? The kind where the joke always on him.

Give these ideas a try.

I’m not saying you have to make an utter fool of yourself to be a better leader.

I’m simply saying relax and have a laugh about yourself.

It will help you and your followers feel at ease.