subject: Funny Motivational Posters - Do They Really Work? [print this page] In hundreds of schools, colleges, and workplaces, funny motivational posters are likely to be found in multiple locations throughout. In places where motivation is important to the success of not only the individual, but also the organization, posters, plaques, and bulletin boards are often adorned with various words and images deigned motivational. Comedy is often used to lighten the delivery of the message, or create a common connection to a universal understanding. Humor is the universal stress reducer. In organizations such as schools and colleges, stress often hinders motivation. As such, humorous sayings meant to increase motivation target stressors inhibiting students and faculty.
Do these funny motivational posters truly work? The answer to that question lies with each individual. Each person has their own sense of humor, and what one person finds funny may not be the same as another. However, there are universal themes that appeal to the masses. It is that universal appeal that humorous posters seek to employ. By using humor, social conflict and individual tensions are reduced, thereby paving the way to less cluttered thinking and more focus on goals. Who hasn't felt a little lighter after a good laugh?
Funny motivational posters have no scientific medicinal use. A physician does not prescribe them. They do, however, serve something of a psychologically medicinal purpose. It has been proven that humor and laughter reduce cortisol and release endorphins. As such, these humorous posters can trigger brain chemicals that lower stress and make a person feel good. Less stress equals less negative thinking, which in turn, allows a person the mental space for positive thoughts. Positive thoughts encourage motivation, especially in young students. While a funny cartoon poster with a motivational theme does not directly cause success, when viewed in terms of creating a positive atmosphere, every little bit helps.
People become what they focus on regularly. If focus centers on pressure and stress, a person is more likely to feel pressured and stressed. If focus centers on humor and personal enjoyment, a person is more likely to feel light-hearted and happy. Funny motivational posters seek to encourage a focus on positive motivation with a light-hearted approach. Good cheer and happiness can be strong motivating forces. While a simple poster with a humorous motivational theme cannot guarantee success, it can foster an environment that refrains from creating motivation-deflating pressure. It is hard enough for some individuals to maintain motivation without adding stress and pressure to perform.
