No matter how unpleasant they may be, arguments in a relationship are inevitable. Fortunately, how we handle them can make all the difference. Laughter is a powerful tool that can diffuse tension, foster connection, and promote healing. Here are 12 ways you can laugh off an argument in your relationships.
1. Bring Up a Shared Humorous Memory
One effective way to lighten the mood during an argument is to recall a relevant funny memory you both share. This could be an inside joke or a humorous incident from the past that stemmed from similar circumstances. Bringing up such a memory can shift the focus from the conflict to a positive moment, reminding both parties of happier times. Laughter from these shared memories can act as a bridge, helping to mend the rift.
2. Use Playful Banter
Playful banter, when used correctly, can diffuse tension and bring smiles. Light teasing your partner or friend about the situation without undermining their feelings can show that you’re not taking the argument too seriously. It’s important to read the room; if your loved one is very upset, this might not be the best time. However, a well-timed, gentle joke can often break the ice and signal that it’s okay to relax and move on.
3. Create a Silly Ritual
Develop a silly ritual that you both agree to perform when an argument starts. It could be a funny dance, a goofy expression, or a peculiar phrase that you both find amusing. This ritual can serve as a reminder that you’re in this together and that every argument doesn’t have to be a battle. The sheer act of performing it can induce laughter and help break the tension from the start.
4. Imitate Each Other Lightheartedly
Imitating each other in a lighthearted manner can help you both see the argument from the other’s perspective. In the right situations, mimicking their tone or gestures in a playful way can help break the ice. This exercise also shows that you’re paying attention and understand their point of view. Just ensure it’s done with a tone of affection and empathy, not mockery, to avoid further escalation.
5. Share a Comedic Video
Sharing a comedic video that you both enjoy can be a great way to laugh off an argument. Find something that you know will make your loved one laugh: a favorite stand-up comedian, a funny clip from a TV show, or a viral internet video. This distraction can give you both a break from the argument and a chance to bond over shared humor. It’s hard to take a fight too seriously after watching a cute cat video or funny fails.
6. Make a Silly Bet
Turn the argument into a game by making a silly bet. For example, bet on something trivial like who can keep a straight face the longest or who can tell the funniest joke. The light-hearted competition can redirect the energy from the argument to something fun and entertaining. Hopefully you’ll both forget what you were fighting about in short order.
7. Practice Funny Faces
This might sound childish, but sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Challenge each other to a funny face contest. The absurdity of the situation can make both of you laugh and see the argument in a less serious light. It’s hard to stay mad when you’re both making ridiculous faces at each other during an argument.
8. Engage in Self-Deprecating Humor
Making fun of yourself is a great way to laugh off an argument. Try telling a joke at your expense or poking fun at your own perspective to show that you’re not too mad. Make sure that your joke comes across as humble and genuine, not sarcastic, to avoid accidentally escalating the argument. Hopefully your wry self-deprecation will break the tension and help get your loved one laughing along with you, ending the fight.
9. Make Sure You’re Both in on The Joke
Laughing off an argument only works when you’re both in on the joke. For example, mimicking your partner can come across as mean-spirited if she’s not in the mood to participate in a role reversal exercise. According to HelpGuide.org, you should carefully monitor your loved one’s verbal and nonverbal cues such as body language to ensure they’re enjoying your jokes. If they seem uncomfortable, it’s important to stop right away.
It’s appropriate to laugh off an argument if you’re fighting about something trivial like how to load the dishwasher. But sometimes certain conflicts are too serious to be diffused with humor and may require a different approach.
10. Invent a Funny Song
Make up a silly song about your argument. Use exaggerated lyrics and an over-the-top melody to poke fun at the situation. Singing about your disagreement in a humorous way can help you both see and laugh about how minor the issue might be in the grand scheme of things. Plus, creating something together can be a bonding experience that strengthens your connection.
11. Use Funny Voices
Start speaking in funny voices or accents mid-argument. It’s hard to stay serious when one of you sounds like a cartoon character or a movie villain. This tactic can be particularly effective in cutting through the tension and bringing about laughter. It shows that while you may be upset, you’re still willing to make an effort to lighten the mood.
12. Watch a Comedy Together
Take a break from the argument and watch a comedy. Choose a movie or TV show that you both enjoy and know will make you laugh. Having this shared experience can serve as a reminder of your common interests and how much you enjoy each other’s company. Laughing together while watching can create a positive atmosphere that makes it easier to resolve your differences.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Laughter truly is the best medicine, even when it comes to conflicts in your relationships. By laughing off an argument, you can ease tension, foster understanding, and strengthen your bond. The key is to use these strategies at the appropriate time with love and respect, ensuring that both parties feel valued and heard. Next time you find yourself in the midst of a heated discussion, try one of these 12 ways to laugh it off and see how it transforms your relationships with loved ones.
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Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance and lifestyle writer. When she’s not busy writing about her favorite money saving hacks or tinkering with her budget spreadsheets, she likes to travel, garden, and cook healthy vegetarian meals.