Can Levity Help You Lead?
We often hear that leadership requires seriousness, focus, and gravitas. And yes, those are valuable traits – but must they come at the expense of laughter?
In a world where leaders are expected to navigate uncertainty, inspire teams, and deliver results, one of the most underrated tools in the leadership kit might just be levity. Not as a distraction, but as a doorway to connection, creativity and cohesion.
I recently had the honour of contributing to the Spring issue of EDGE Journal, The Institute of Leadership’s excellent quarterly magazine. It’s a publication that truly understands the complexity of modern leadership – and makes it both accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been leading for decades, EDGE delivers fresh thinking, practical insight, and a real sense of connection to a wider leadership community.
(If you’re a member, do explore EDGE Online – there’s a treasure trove of wisdom waiting to be discovered.)
In the article, I explore the idea that humour – used well – is not just a garnish, but a game-changer. Leaders who embrace levity don’t just lighten the mood; they lift the performance, the engagement, and, crucially, the humanity of their teams.
But in this blog, I’d like to zoom out and reflect on why humour is such an essential element in leadership today – especially as the working world continues to evolve at pace.
Levity Isn’t a Luxury — It’s a Leadership Strategy
Let’s be clear: we’re not talking about stand-up routines in the boardroom. We’re talking about creating cultures where people feel psychologically safe, connected, and comfortable enough to bring their whole selves to work.
Humour, when used with care and emotional intelligence, acts as a social glue. It builds rapport faster than bullet points. It diffuses tension when things get tough. And perhaps most importantly, it makes the workplace a more human place to be.
It’s no coincidence that some of the most admired global organisations actively encourage a spirit of fun. They understand that innovation thrives where fear retreats. And nothing helps fear retreat quite like shared laughter.
So, how do leaders begin to use humour in ways that support, rather than sabotage, their success?
Here are three practical tips:
Three Takeaway Tips for Leading with Levity
1. Don’t try to be funny – try to be human
The best humour in leadership isn’t about punchlines. It’s about presence. Share a light moment, a knowing smile, or a well-timed anecdote. Authenticity beats wit every time.
2. Let laughter lead to trust
A shared laugh is one of the quickest ways to build trust. In high-pressure situations, a moment of levity can act as a pressure valve and a trust signal. When people feel safe to smile, they feel safe to speak up.
3. Create conditions for connection
Set the tone from the top. Make space for lightness in meetings, emails, and everyday interactions. It signals that your team’s wellbeing matters as much as the workload.
I firmly believe that leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room — it’s about being the most resonant. And humour, when used wisely, resonates in ways spreadsheets never could.
The EDGE Journal is doing exceptional work in spotlighting these conversations, and I’m proud to have added my voice to its pages. If you’re not yet a member of the Institute of Leadership, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Leadership Global a brilliant resource for growing your career, your confidence and your community.
If you’d like to read my article in full click on the image below.
So, can you lead without levity?
Maybe.
But wouldn’t it be more effective – and enjoyable – if you didn’t have to?
See you next Tuesday.
Warmest,
Paul x
It would be remiss of me not to mention the latest Podcast episodes featuring the wonderfully hilarious Justin Moorhouse, so in case you’ve managed to avoid them (how could you?) I’ve put some super useful links below, just for you
