Tentative Agenda

Week 1: Laying the Foundation (Introduction to Strategic Humor)

• Objective: Explore the foundational role of humor in coaching and its impact on the brain.
• Topics covered:   
  • What is strategic humor and why does it matter?
  • Understanding the science of humor and neuroplasticity
  • Overview of the benefits of humor in communication and influence 
• Humor Challenge: Your Desire Outcome

Week 2: The Shortest Distance Between Two People (Building Connection with Humor)

• Objective: Learn to use humor to establish rapport and trust 
• Topics covered: 
  • Techniques for creating a shared humanity with humor
  • How to make people feel comfortable and open
  • The role of humor in building authentic relationships
• Humor Challenge: SEE Funny 

Week 3: From HaHa to AhHa! (Transformational Humor: Reframing and Shifting Perspectives)

•Objective: Use humor to help see challenges differently and unlock insights.

• Topics covered:  
  • Techniques for reframing challenges with humor
  • How humor reduces stress and increases creative thinking
  • Exercises for applying humor to open new pathways
• Humor Challenge: Stack the Deck 

Week 4: Beyond Duct Tape and WD-40 (Crafting Your Humor Toolkit)

• Objective: Develop a repertoire of humor techniques to influence
• Topics covered: 
  • Types of humor: storytelling, wordplay, self-deprecation, observational humor
  • Building a personal humor toolkit tailored to your unique style
  • Practice exercises and feedback on humor applications
• Humor Challenge: Practice By Choice, Not Chance 

Week 5: For a change... (Understanding the Psychology of Humor)

• Objective: Delve into the neuroscience and psychology behind humor's impact.
• Topics covered:  
  • How humor affects emotions, cognition, and the brain's wiring
  • Adapting humor to other's individual needs and responses
  •  Using humor as a safe, non-intrusive tool for behavioral change
• Humor Challenge: Create Your Humor Habit

Week 6: Goldmines & Landmines (Ethical and Effective Humor)

• Objective: Learn to use humor respectfully and ethically.
• Topics covered: 
  • Recognizing and avoiding common humor pitfalls
  • Understanding boundaries and cultural sensitivities
  • Guidelines for humor to support and not detract from the goals of others.

• Humor Challenge: Play it forward

Week 7: Is It Hot in Here or Is It Just Me? (Humor and Conflict

• Objective: Recognize ways that humor can de-escalate tension and disagreements
• Topics Covered:
  • Five functions of humor in conflict
  • Benefits of improv in conflict management
  • The role of planned spontaneity
• Humor Challenge: Become a student of humor

Week 8: Applying Humor in Real Coaching/Leadership Scenarios

• Objective: Integrate and apply humor skills in real-world situations.
• Topics covered:
  • Strategies for incorporating humor into diverse challenges
  • Final reflections on the role of humor in your work
  • How to continue developing and integrating humor after the course.

Humor Challenge: Beyond Funny

What's in it for YOU?

Here's just the beginning...

1. Enhanced rapport building  
2. Enhanced problem-solving skills  
3. Improved conflict resolution
4. Improved adaptability  
4. Stress management for YOU
5.Increased emotional intelligence 
6. Better memory and recall
7. Enhanced active listening skills  
8. Increased resilience
9. Improved group facilitation 
10. Enhanced cultural competence 

What's in it for THEM?

For starters...

1. Stress reduction
2. Improved rapport
3. Increased self-awareness
4. Increased resilience in facing challenges
5. Improved cognitive flexibility
6. Enhanced problem solving and creativity 
7. Diffusion of tension in difficult conversations
8. Increased self-awareness
9. Enhanced emotional intelligence
10. Improved ability to reframe negative situations