If you’ve ever been to a bad stand-up comedy set or watched a funny show that simply didn’t make you laugh, it’s all too easy to assume that you’re not a comedy person. You might even be quite accepting of that fact, but we’ve got some hard news for you – dismissing all comedy on the back of a few bad experiences will ultimately see you missing out.
After all, dismissing the entire genre of comedy is a lot like saying you don’t like films just because Jaws didn’t chime with you – it’s reductive, and let’s face it, probably not accurate. After all, films are for everyone, and comedy is no exception.
If you still don’t believe us, keep on reading to find out once and for all why you’re wrong when you state that comedy isn’t for you.
# 1 - The Benefits of Comedy are Universal
There are countless studies emerging to prove that comedy is a vital medicine against the despair of modern life. And that’s hardly surprising considering that people who regularly enjoy either live or recorded comedy are able to access wide-reaching benefits like stress reduction, emotional regulation, and even enhanced resilience. And that’s not to mention physical plus points, such as improved heart health, and pain reduction.
In other words, anyone who wants to live a healthy, happy life could probably benefit from getting on the comedy bandwagon. And, considering that these are things we pretty much all want for ourselves, we’re hazarding a guess that comedy could actually be a great fit for you.
# 2 - There Really is Something for Everyone
Dismissing films after one bad experience is foolish because no two films are the same. The same is true of comedy, which is so varied that you’re sure to find something you enjoy if you simply open your mind.
For some people, stand-up comedy shows like the ones hosted at Stuart Mitchell's Comedy Club are guaranteed to get them laughing, while other people may prefer funny shows that they can binge-watch at home, such as Netflix’s ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’.
Ultimately, finding your comedy sweetspot is a simple case of experimentation. Just make sure that you’re open to giving things a try, rather than dismissing all comedy upfront.
# 3 - Everyone Can Relate
Lastly, let’s be honest about this – most comedy is funny because it’s relatable in some way. Stand-up comedy entertainers offer particularly unforgettable experiences by leaning on personal stories with the broadest appeal or that tap into relatable concerns about issues like politics and life.
This is why comedy has such a mass audience, and it’s something that could lead you to be a convert once you find the right comedian. Simply think about what you relate to the most, be that existential dread, political despair, or simply the personal awkwardness that’s basically become a brand for comedians like Elyse Myers. Then, sit back, switch on (or find a seat in the club), and learn first-hand just how ‘for you’ comedy actually is.