This commandment is not about losing self-respect or demeaning ourselves. Just the opposite — it is an act of loving kindness. Willingness to laugh at ourselves frees us from the restrictions of the unrealistic and unremittingly harsh expectations to which we hold ourselves when we are under duress. It gives us latitude to appreciate the ever-present inconsistencies and contradictions that are part of our makeup. Laughing at ourselves helps us recognize the difference between perfection and perfectionism. 15 Perfection is what we are, and that includes all the inconsistencies and shortcomings. You are not perfect, but you are perfection because of, not in spite of, your contradictions. Perfection is healthy. It includes imperfection. Perfectionism, on the other hand, is what we think we should be. It is always unhealthy. It is intolerant of imperfection. When we are caught up in our perfectionism, we are brittle and inflexible. We can be broken down by change. So laughing at ourselves is not a form of humiliation. It is a way of taking ourselves lightly, while still taking our responsibilities seriously. Once we are able to lighten up, we become more creative and resourceful. When the going gets tough, the tough lighten up. If you are having trouble laughing at yourself, this exercise is recommended:
Exercise #3: Sit quietly in a comfortable chair. Take several deep-relaxing breaths. Try to release all of the tension that will leave you as you let go of each breath. Dismiss all of the usual thoughts from your mind and set aside, momentarily, any problems you have been wrestling with. After approximately a dozen relaxing breaths, let your attention focus upon a trait or characteristic of yours that you do not like. It can be physical, mental, or social. It doesn’t matter. Just make sure it’s something you don’t like about yourself. While keeping the “unwanted” trait firmly in mind, try to think of a way this characteristic could be amusing. Be playful and gentle. Do not be unkind or mean spirited. Simply do what you can to see this trait in a more amusing or ridiculous light. After a moment, discontinue this thought pattern and simply take a few more deep relaxing breaths. End the exercise by taking one final deep breath, slowly exhaling as you open your eyes and stretch your arms over your head, and then bring them back down.
It has been a serious week... I don't remember if I have laughed at any of my stupidity.... Atlast instead of taking the lift to 13 th floor I took it to 14th!! Then took the stairs..Dont know what I was thinking
All it takes... just a smile..
Today I am smiling, laughing........... From deep inside my heart, I feel life is too short to spend worrying.... I should smile and laugh and wave goodbye to the "BAD thoughts".........
True thing..
Back in school, when I made weird excuses and explanations why I didn't study at home... Blah :P
And thinking those I laugh.
OK.... Seems like am always ready for a snap with some quirky action and a smile. . .
The old me started to fading away
See there you are.. noticing your own improvement..
Thanks Hun!!
A clown who makes us laugh is the most kind hearten person. He laughs at himself and also makes us laugh. How to handle situation when I am embarrassed.
Why to get embarrassed? Thinking that others would laugh at us? Is it a crime to laugh? Is it a crime to be happy? Do the clowns as you said are embarrassed for making us laugh? Of course not… Then why would you be embarrassed dear… you made someone laugh and that is a good thing..
Lewis... Such a true thing ... I would keep it in mind.. Thankxx