If you want to have more friends, more fun, and more success in life, then you need to be funny.

For many people, this comes naturally. But for others like myself (why so serious!!??) you’re gonna have to learn.

Thankfully, you can learn anything in life—humor very much included. Here’s how.

1. Listen carefully. Not only to how comedians and funny people say things, but what’s being said in the very conversation you’re engaged in. Being funny is mostly about wordplay, surprise, and timing, so pay attention.
2. Say the opposite of what’s expected or intended. That’s called irony, which is often hilarious. That could be saying the opposite to obvious yes/no questions, using exaggerated numbers with deadpan delivery (“How many people were at the party? Around 10 million.”), or unmatched listings, (“I love peanut butter, mangoes, and anorexia.”)
3. Never lose your cool. Doing so is never funny. To do this, you must accept, if not embrace your vulnerabilities and quirks. You must be self-deprecating and make fun of yourself, which makes those around you laugh and like you more.
4. Tell funny stories, not jokes. The vast majority of both comedians and humans do this. You should too. Retell the funniest, real-life stories you’ve experienced (especially embarrassing ones) and people will laugh and love you for it.
5. Call backs. Repeat something funny or witty that someone said earlier in the conversation. This never gets old.

Remember, if something doesn’t make you laugh, it probably won’t others. Also, never belittle or employ shock comedy. Rudeness and discomfort ain’t funny. It’s a cheap way of eliciting nervous laughter.