Celebrating National Let’s Laugh Day

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Laughter truly is the best medicine, and every March 19, we honor its incredible power on National Let’s Laugh Day. It’s a joyful reminder of the simple yet profound impact laughter has on our minds, bodies, and relationships. Think about the last time you had a good laugh. Didn’t everything feel just a little brighter, a little easier?

I love Marjorie Pay Hinckley’s quote. She said, “The only way to get through life is to laugh your way through it. You either have to laugh or cry. I prefer to laugh. Crying gives me a headache.”

Laughter isn’t just a fleeting moment of joy; it’s a fountain of benefits. For starters, it’s a natural stress reliever. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins (those feel-good chemicals), which instantly reduces tension. It’s like giving your mind a mini vacation!

But the benefits don’t stop there. Laughter improves mental health by lifting moods and combating feelings of anxiety or depression. It also strengthens social connections. Sharing a laugh fosters trust and creates bonds, whether it’s over a funny story with friends or joking with coworkers.

Physically, laughter does wonders. It strengthens your immune system, leaving you better equipped to fight off illnesses. It even boosts heart health by increasing blood flow and improving circulation. (Who knew giggles could be so good for the body?)

And in case you’ve never noticed, laughter sparks creativity. When you’re relaxed and happy, your brain gets into problem-solving mode, opening doors to those “lightbulb” moments. It also contributes to resilience; a great laugh can help you recover after setbacks, making challenges feel less daunting.

This March 19, why not lean into the spirit of the day? Spend time sharing laughs with those closest to you. Watch your favorite comedy, tell a silly joke, or even try a laughter yoga session (yes, that’s a thing!).

Laughter doesn’t have to stop after today. Imagine what a little more humor could do in your everyday life. At USANA, we value moments of connection and joy because we know how much they contribute to a healthy, happy lifestyle. What’s one small way you can add more laughter to your routine?

Whether you’re cracking jokes, finding humor in life’s quirks, or simply cherishing those moments of shared joy, laughter is meant to be celebrated. This National Let’s Laugh Day, take the first step toward laughter-filled days. Your mind, body, and relationships will thank you!

Are we connected on LinkedIn? There, I share posts about professional development skills, self-care reminders, and more.

3 Proven Steps for Active Listening

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Listening, I believe, is one of the most underrated tools to connect with others. It’s through listening that we truly meet people where they are, and I’ve experienced its life-changing impact firsthand. I encourage exploring and celebrating the transformational power of listening. It can strengthen personal and professional relationships and foster deeper understanding.

In my book, “All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony,” I recall a pivotal moment when I sought advice from motivational speaker Denis Waitley regarding my young son’s behavioral challenges. Feeling a growing frustration as a parent, I feared my response might escalate the situation.

Denis’ advice was simple yet profound: don’t punish by removing something tied to their self-esteem. Trusting this counsel, my wife and I paused, listened intently to our son, and discovered the root of the problem — a need for understanding, not correction. That moment, guided by listening, prevented a major parenting mistake and deepened the parent-son bond in ways we never expected.

Another striking example came when a friend confided in me about a strained relationship with someone in their life. Instead of offering premature solutions, I listened without judgment. By giving my friend the space to share openly, I helped them feel understood and validated. The tension they carried began to dissolve simply because someone cared enough to truly hear them. Sometimes, listening is the most powerful gift you can give.

3 Proven Steps to Improve Active Listening

To inspire others to hone their listening skills, here are three proven steps for active listening:

1. Seek First to Understand

Inspired by Stephen R. Covey’s teachings, this principle encourages focused, empathetic listening. Instead of planning your response, aim to fully grasp the other person’s thoughts and emotions.

2. Listen to Your Inner Voice

Active listening isn’t just external. Assess your own biases, assumptions, and mental distractions. When you’re mindful of your inner dialogue, you can approach listening with greater clarity.

3. Lead with Empathy

Engage not only with your ears but with your heart. By imagining yourself in the other person’s position, you can respond with compassion and create stronger, more authentic connections.

A Relationship-Strengthening Superpower

Listening is not merely a soft skill; it’s a superpower that strengthens relationships and fosters goodwill. This March, I invite everyone to reflect on how intentional listening can amplify personal and professional success. Whether in boardrooms or living rooms, listening has the potential to rebuild trust, diffuse conflict, and nurture growth.

Listening starts with a choice. It’s about showing up for others, being present, and moving beyond surface-level conversations. This month is a vital reminder of how each of us can make our world better, one conversation at a time.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on March 3, 2025. All the Right Reasons provides more inspiring examples of the power of listening. All proceeds go to feeding hungry children, and each book purchase provides 40 meals. 

USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. From its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear and concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com.