I think humor is a great thing. It definitely gives us a chance to relieve some stress when we try to find some humor in a situation. When we make light of a situation that requires some real effort to change, that is a different story.
You probably know someone who could make major headway in improving their life if they would just develop a “spine.” Some people allow themselves to be used as a door mat. They let people take advantage of them. They may even put up with abusive behavior. When the reality of the situation is pointed out to them, they may even laugh and say they know they shouldn’t do this or that, but they continue to allow a bad situation to continue. To make jokes or laugh with someone who continues to be taken advantage of, does them no favor.
If you want to help them, support their desire for change and growth. Let them know that you will be there for them, if they will be there for themselves. We can’t make someone care for themself if they do not want to spend the time or energy to make the change needed to improve themselves or their situation.
What you need to do is recognize how much time you are spending, trying to get them to see the reality of what they are doing to themselves. If you are spending too much time with someone who shows no sign of wanting to change their behavior and move forward, you better find some new people to be friends with. You have places to go and goals to conquer! Don’t waste precious time. “Now let’s get going!” xo Sally
