As far as our brains are concerned, laughter is like exercising, meditating, and having

sex at the same time.

But logistically easier and more appropriate in the office.

That's right.

I'm Rufus Griskem and this is the next big idea.

Today, why cultivating levity can make you healthy, wealthy, and more effective at work.

For years now, really ever since I was a child, I've been haunted by the same question

when I haven't had the courage to ask aloud.

I've worried that if I got the wrong answer, the consequences could be disastrous.

It would shatter my self-esteem like a tootsie pop under the heel of a shoe.

So much of my self-esteem, the picture of myself I maintain as a father and a husband

as a colleague and a friend, one that I protect like a signed Elvis poster, is based upon

a belief that might in fact turn out to be a sham.

But a few nights ago I decided I couldn't take it anymore, so I gathered my wife and kids

around our kitchen table, hit record on a voice memo, and asked them to give it to me straight.

So guys, here is my question for the family.

Am I funny?

Yeah, sure.

Not exactly the ringing endorsement I was hoping for.

So I turned my attention to my youngest son, Rae.

Surely he must remember the time I danced like Madonna in her prime in the middle of the

airport food court, freezing whenever he hit the pause button on my AirPods.

...