We, unconsciously or consciously, look for a lot of things on a first date.

We want to be physically and emotionally attracted to the person.

There has to be chemistry.

Woman laughing at date

The conversation should ideally flow easily.

Humor is also something that helps.

For you, this might definitely be asign that you should go on a second datewith this person.

Couple laughing together

Humor has numerous benefits.

Scientists think it relieves stress and brings people closer together.

This is probably why the saying, “laughter is the best medicine” was born.

Laughing couple

Think about how your last date’s sense of humor added a whole other dimension to your encounter.

Did you find them easier to get along with?

Did your time with them seem lighter and therefore more pleasant?

Chances are, your answer to all of those questions was “yes.”

Another link researchers have found between humor and character traits in a person is intelligence.

People who can laugh at life and themselves apparently possess a higher IQ than those who can’t.

There’s also something else.

What is emotional intelligence?

At its most basic, emotional intelligence has to do with understanding yourself and those around you.

Is your date curious about you?

Do they ask questions to better understand you?

Do they seem confident and happy in their own skin?

Do they have healthy relationships in their life?

These are all signs that they are emotionally intelligent.

Want to train your own emotional intelligence muscles?

But Gibson thinks there’s a way to bring it back (and also increase our emotional intelligence).

Learning to see the lighter side of things is a great way to build mental resilience too.

How can you go about adding laughter to your life?

A good starting point might to be simply watch more comedies.

The idea is to find everyday avenues that prioritize a sense of humor.