The past few days my husband and I have been in Australia and Tasmania seeing so many creatures, not to mention billboards like those pictured above where children pose for pictures “with” koalas and Tasmanian devils.

Despite the fact that they’re generally for children’s use, those of you who know me well probably aren’t surprised that I posed, too—you know I rarely miss an opportunity to make myself ridiculous.

Why is this important—and how can it help you?

It’s important because while a willingness to be silly may make some people laugh at you, many more are likely to laugh with you—to end up feeling closer to you. (Should you doubt me, please note how mocking New York’s newest, youngest Congresswoman, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for dancing in college backfired. She gained far more support than she lost.)

After all, who doesn’t like someone who can laugh at themself?

Frankly, people who can’t make me very, very nervous. 

Now I’m not talking about making anything and everything a joke. Nor am I talking about the kind of self-deprecation that requires those around you to reassure you how special you are, or the kind of “humble bragging” that constantly reminds others how special you think you are. 

I’m just asking you to let others know that you don’t take yourself too seriously; to consider—the next time you are hesitating because doing thus-and-such might make you look silly— jumping in with both feet.

Because if you do I think you’ll be surprised by how much goodwill you land in.