Laughter is the best medicine.

Unless you're diabetic...then it's insulin.

Humor is an essential tool when leading others in a kitchen environment. There is a lot of hard work and stress involved in the day to day operations of running a good restaurant...and you can't do it alone.  A chef must earn the will of his workers to accomplish his goals. Laughter binds people together and enhances relationships stronger, deeper and quicker than than any other leadership style...in my opinion. I started my apprenticeship in an environment of pride and honour. It was profound for me but it didn't work on everybody. I have also worked in kitchen environments that employ fear as the motivator. You will get quick results but not lasting ones. It makes a dangerous and volatile work place. Quality humor is infectious. It crosses all personalities, societies and nationalities, will put people at ease, create team work and a good start to setting up people who want to do things your way.

Everybody laughs in the same language. 

A very funny comedian and his favorite subject is food. Click the picture you'll see what I mean