“You never know how much a simple SMILE will do.” Mother Teresa
Most of us don’t even feel like we are in the same league as Mother Teresa when it comes to serving others. Yet, here is something that you can give away that costs you nothing.
A simple SMILE can make a huge difference in the life of others who are going through a difficult time. I smile all the time. It is the gift that does a lot for you in the process of giving. I do want to qualify that it needs to be a genuine smile with crinkled eyes and reaching out to the other person.
Benefits of Smiling
1. Smiles change the atmosphere
When you smile, others smile back. It can change the atmosphere as the other person smiles back. You are spreading good cheer and joy. It’s called the mirror effect.
Back in the days when I traveled almost every week I was talking to fellow-speakers about the cities that were friendliest. I was astounded as I heard them complain about certain geographic areas that were unfriendly and even hostile. I spoke up and said, “That’s so funny you said that. I was just in New York City and met the friendliest people ever.”
The response was interesting, “Well, with that smile everyone smiles back at you.”
They continued complaining without even letting that reality sink in.
Establish a place of care and concern. Smile and others will smile back.
2. Smiles lower stress
Research now shows that people who smile reduce their stress. The smile muscles send a signal to your brain that you believe that your situation is temporary and that you will get through it.
Next time you have find yourself in one of the difficult spots where you have no control over the outcome such as a travel delay or grid-locked traffic take a deep breath and smile. You will feel your heart rate lower as your brain receives the message that there are opportunities to be a Hope Ambassador or at least a civil driver as you let the car with the blinker into the space in front of you.
3. Smiles boost your immune system
Research has shown that when children who were very ill had opportunities to laugh with puppet shows, etc. their immune system was boosted. So smile away and stay healthier. It’s cheaper than buying medicine.
4. Smiles release endorphins
Do you run every day? That’s one way to release endorphins. They call it the ‘runner’s high.’ Another way is to smile. So turn the corners up on your mouth, let your eyes crinkle a little and you will feel better.
5. Smiles attract conversation
When you smile you let people know you are approachable. I know people who find it hard to talk to those they do not know well. Start by smiling. The other person will feel comfortable and you may find a new friend.
6. Smiles release confidence
Those who smile are more willing to get out of their comfort zone. When you feel the butterflies in your stomach churning around, smile and they will start to fly in formation. Others will perceive you as more confident than you really feel at that moment. Once you have that small win, you can go on to accomplish the rest of the items on your bucket list.
7. Smiles make you more attractive
Research has shown that we are attracted to those who seem sincerely happy. We are drawn to them. When asked about someone who smiles easily we will find them more attractive than a person who is serious.
So give the gift that costs you nothing yet will have wonderful returns — your SMILE! Here’s mine. Hope you smiled back!
