Don’t worry about being funny enough for him! If you’re light-hearted and enjoy having fun, he’ll enjoy having fun with you. Don’t worry about the impression you’re making. Do what makes you happy and he’ll probably want to join in. If you’re trying to be funny, it’ll come across that you’re trying to be funny. Be natural and let the conversation flow naturally. The humor will come!
When we’re optimistic, everything is a bit brighter. When everything is a bit brighter, it’s easier to crack jokes (and to crack a smile in return). It’s easier to take a mundane situation and turn it into an opportunity to have fun. The more fun you have, the more you (and him!) will be laughing.
The most aptly-timed joke on, say, Foucault won’t be appreciated by the type of guy who prefers laughing at toilet humor. And it works the other way around, too. Does the guy you’re eyeing prefer bro banter? Is he into witty non-sequiturs about current events? Can he be slayed by a play on words in Klingon? Find out!
You don’t have to laugh at every joke he makes like your world has just been altered. If he drops a dud, laugh at him, albeit playfully. Did he just try an unfunny, stereotypical, sexist, blonde joke? Oh, honey. Let him know how cute he is for trying with a fake chuckle and a forced grin.
Establishing a banter can develop a rapport between you two, creating a bond that won’t easily be broken. Whether his humor is self-deprecating or straight out of Family Guy, go with it. Show him that you appreciate how fun he is.
By being positive and fun, you’re really doing all you can. Be his friend (or whatever is fitting for your relationship), do little things for him, and just try to make his life easier (especially if he’s been dealt a sour deck of cards). Let him see the bright side of life so the humor can start flowing.
Studies actually show that embarrassing yourself can actually get people to like you and trust you more. It sort of makes sense – when you show you’re down-to-earth, light-hearted, and just a plain human like they are, it takes away any possible intimidation and stress. [4] X Research source
Popcorn? Uh, yes, please! It’s time for a who’s-got-better-aim contest. And spaghetti? It’s totally Lady & the Tramp time. Standing in line for your favorite movie? Bored so incredibly that you’re practically gnawing off your arm for something to do? Why would you not bust out the macarena? As long as he’s the type that doesn’t embarrass easily, that is. Try play-fighting, tickling or play-attacking him. The bond of human touch is strong as steel. Is it time for a thumb war rematch yet? Laugh yourself. You don’t need a good reason! Laughing is a chain reaction that often causes other people to laugh. And it will make you happier, too!
If he’s not laughing at your jokes, it’s fine. You think you’re funny and that’s all that matters. If he sees you in your element, being natural, there’s nothing to not like. So take a breath – you got this.
