This book claims that a tragicomic outlook—the kind that echoes in black and gallows humour and the "laughter through tears" of Jewish humour—is the most effective way to manage what Freud called the "harshness" of everyday life.

By using his unique blend of humor and tell-it-like-it-is honesty, he helps couples get along and have fun doing it.

Laughter—the GPS System for the Soul Laughter was honored by the ancients as a spiritual healing tool and celebrated by the world's great religions. So why aren’t we laughing along the spiritual path today? What would happen if we did? In this personal and funny look at humor as a spiritual practice, Rev. Susan Sparks—an ex-lawyer turned comedian and Baptist minister—presents a convincing case that the power of humor radiates far beyond punch lines. Laughter can help you: Remove the fearful mask of a God who doesn’t laugh Debunk the myths that you don’t deserve joy Find perspective when faced with adversity Exercise forgiveness for yourself and others Reclaim play as a spiritual practice Heal—emotionally, physically, and spiritually Keep your faith when God is silent Live with elegance, beauty, and generosity of spirit Whatever your faith tradition—or if you have none at all—join this veteran of the punch line and the pulpit in reclaiming the forgotten humor legacy found in thousands of years of human spiritual history.

WALL STREET JOURNAL, LOS ANGELES TIMES, AND USA TODAY BESTSELLER • Anyone—even you!—can learn how to harness the power of humor in business (and life), based on the popular class at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business. Don’t miss the authors’ TED Talk, “Why great leaders take humor seriously,” online now. “The ultimate guide to using the magical power of funny as a tool for leadership and a force for good.”—Daniel H. Pink, #1 New York Times bestselling author of When and Drive We are living through a period of unprecedented uncertainty and upheaval in both our personal and professional lives. So it should come as a surprise to exactly no one that trust, human connection, and mental well-being are all on the decline. This may seem like no laughing matter. Yet, the research shows that humor and laughter are among the most valuable tools we have at our disposal for strengthening bonds and relationships, diffusing stress and tension, boosting resilience, and performing when the stakes are high. That’s why Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas teach the popular course Humor: Serious Business at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where they help some of the world’s most hard-driving, blazer-wearing business minds infuse more humor and levity into their work and lives. In Humor, Seriously, they draw on findings by behavioral scientists, world-class comedians, and inspiring business leaders to reveal how humor works and—more important—how you can use more of it, better. Aaker and Bagdonas unpack the theory and application of humor: what makes something funny, how to mine your life for material, and simple ways to identify and leverage your unique humor style. They show how to use humor to rebuild vital connections; appear more confident, competent, and authentic at work; and foster cultures where levity and creativity can thrive. President Dwight David Eisenhower once said, “A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.” If Dwight David Eisenhower, the second least naturally funny president (after Franklin Pierce), thought humor was necessary to win wars, build highways, and warn against the military-industrial complex, then you might consider learning it too.

One of the secrets of a great marriage is laughing together. Couples don’t need to choose between work and play, duty and fun, laughter and responsibility. This book will help couples learn how to use fun, humor, and laughter to lighten the load of everyday life, reduce stress, and grow closer together.

When life is funny, make some jokes about it. Billy Plimpton has a big dream: to become a famous comedian when he grows up. He already knows a lot of jokes, but thinks he has one big problem standing in his way: his stutter. At first, Billy thinks the best way to deal with this is to . . . never say a word. That way, the kids in his new school won’t hear him stammer. But soon he finds out this is NOT the best way to deal with things. (For one thing, it’s very hard to tell a joke without getting a word out.) As Billy makes his way toward the spotlight, a lot of funny things (and some less funny things) happen to him. In the end, the whole school will know -- If you think you can hold Billy Plimpton back, be warned: The joke will soon be on you!

Get ready to SHIFT your life! "Through shifting your focus and way of thinking, Steve Rizzo shows how to succeed on all levels of life, while actually enjoying the process. What could be better?! You will love the truth, the humor, and the wisdom this book contains." -- Dr. Mehmet Oz, host of The Dr. Oz Show and bestselling coauthor of You: The Owner's Manual "I’m positive you will love this book!” –- Jeffrey Gitomer, bestselling author of the Little Red Book of Selling "The stories in this book will make you think, laugh, and think again. It's an indispensable tool for maximizing your personal and professional success and happiness." -- Joe Vitale, bestselling author of The Attractor Factor "Engaging, hilarious, heartfelt, and authentic—just like Steve--this book is for anyone seeking more purpose and joy in business and in life. I couldn't put it down." -- Lt. Col. Rob "Waldo" Waldman, bestselling author of Never Fly Solo "With humor, research, and personal insights, Steve Rizzo will help you enjoy the journey of life, both personally and professionally. And he will make you laugh--bonus!" -- Chester Elton, bestselling coauthor of The Carrot Principle and All In "Everyone is looking for a road map. Steve provides the driving instructions for those who are ready to shift into high gear on the highway of life." -- Wayne B. Goldberg, President and CEO, La Quinta Inns and Suites "In a book overflowing with wit, passion, and serious truth, Steve helps you navigate that often elusive, yet vital shift in focus that allows you to reclaim the success, joy, and happiness for which your life was intended. Your eyes will be opened, and you will never be the same." -- Joseph Fusco, Vice President, Casella Waste Systems, Inc. LAUGH YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS . . . Who says you have to "get serious" to get everything you want out of life? According to Steve Rizzo, The Attitude Adjuster, you simply need to shift your attitude to get the ball rolling, both at work and in your personal life. In his funny and moving motivational guide, Rizzo shares the life-changing secrets that helped him confront his fears and shift from a promising career as a stand-up comic to his incredible success as a public speaker. Packed with humor, charm, and mind-altering insights--no, not that kind!--Rizzo's unique approach will show you how to: Find the humor in every situation Turn negatives into positives--every single day Make your workplace the best place to succeed Stop being a full-time resident of the Negative Zone Face your fears and get on with your life Make happiness a choice--and have fun doing it! Throughout the book, you'll find specific Attitude Adjustment Strategies that you can apply to every aspect of your professional and personal life. You'll learn how to avoid the Eeyore Syndrome, tap into your Humor Being, turn self-doubt into selfconfidence, and make everyday conversations more engaging and more productive. You'll discover a tried-and-true method for shutting down that selfdefeating Big Mouth inside your head--so you can listen to what's inside your heart. Along the way you'll hear about Rizzo's enlightening firsthand encounters with Eddie Murphy, Rodney Dangerfield, Naomi Judd, Christopher Reeve, and many more. It's all you need to get your shift together, and that's no joke. When the shift hits the fan, your new life begins--with love, with joy, and, of course, with laughter.