Meaning: The quote "I've upped my standards. Now, up yours." is a humorous and clever play on words that was popularized by the American comedian Pat Paulsen. Paulsen was known for his deadpan delivery and satirical take on politics and social issues, and this quote reflects his unique sense of humor.

On the surface, the quote appears to be a simple expression of self-improvement or raising personal expectations. However, the addition of "Now, up yours" at the end adds a cheeky and confrontational twist to the statement. The juxtaposition of the two phrases creates an amusing and somewhat rebellious tone, challenging the listener to also elevate their own standards in a lighthearted and slightly provocative manner.

One interpretation of the quote is that it encourages others to match the speaker's heightened standards or to strive for self-improvement in their own lives. By asserting "up yours," the speaker seems to be playfully challenging others to rise to the occasion and meet the new expectations that have been set. This can be seen as a humorous way of promoting growth and progress, albeit with a touch of sarcasm.

In the context of comedy, the quote takes on an additional layer of irony and absurdity. Pat Paulsen, known for his political satire and parody, often used humor to highlight the absurdity of certain social norms or behaviors. In this case, the quote can be seen as a satirical commentary on the idea of self-improvement and the competitive nature of personal standards. By flipping the phrase into a comical challenge, Paulsen invites his audience to question the very notion of "standards" and to consider the humor in the concept of one person's standards being "upped" while simultaneously inviting others to do the same.

Pat Paulsen's delivery of this quote would have likely included his trademark deadpan expression, adding to the irony and comedic effect. His ability to blend clever wordplay with a straight-faced delivery was a hallmark of his comedic style, and it allowed him to convey deeper messages while keeping his audience entertained.

Overall, "I've upped my standards. Now, up yours." is a witty and thought-provoking quote that embodies Pat Paulsen's comedic approach. It challenges the listener to reflect on their own standards and aspirations while simultaneously eliciting a chuckle or a knowing smile. Through this quote, Paulsen not only showcases his comedic prowess but also encourages his audience to embrace a lighthearted and playful attitude towards personal growth and self-improvement.