In addition to increasing productivity in the workplace, laughter results in reduced absenteeism, anxiety and stress. It also delivers an all-around increased sense of well-being, energy and optimism.

Chris ought to know. He is one of Canada's most renowned laughter advocates. He helps teach organizations and individuals how to create environments that celebrate and foster good humor, respect, caring and nurturing. Through an interactive and dynamic presentation, he encourages audience members to explore strategies that allow people to play together, to laugh together, and ultimately, to stay together.

Recently retired, Chris was formerly Community Programmer with the Sports Institute at Douglas College. He was awarded the 125th Commemorative medal in recognition of his work in physical education and coaching in British Columbia. Chris travels extensively, speaking on various topics relating to self-esteem, laughter and humor. He is also the author of Every Coach's Planner and Idea Book.

Join Chris as he draws on twenty-five years of experience in educating over 10,000 coaches from over 40 different sports. Chris will explore the various strategies used, whether from the soccer field, baseball diamond or in the Board room. Coaching is more than improving skill, it is effecting change in values, attitudes, knowledge and beliefs; it is based on developing positive self images as opposed to developing only excellence in performance. Come and learn how to give effective feedback, use visualization skills and imagery, as well as how to employ simple goal-setting and team-building skills.

Just as in the building of a tower using playing cards or dominoes, one piece out of position can destroy the whole effort-the whole project can come tumbling down around your ears. Perhaps this principle applies in the work place as well. Success in any organization requires trust, cooperation, and communication with a little touch of respect for your fellow human being thrown in.

Laughter is guaranteed to shorten the distance between two people, cultivate more effective communication and reduce stress. Effective use of humour allows people to laugh together, play together and stay together in healthy, productive and cohesive units. Chris Johnson is an internationally renowned expert on humour in the workplace and shares the secrets of how humour and laughter can help create caring environments, reduce animosity among co-workers and assists in building healthier and more productive workplace cultures. Chris' presentation is a delightful blend of stand-up comedy, interaction and education, creatively designed to illustrate the life-long benefits of choosing laughter as a lifestyle choice.