Smile to Make Your Day.

The power of smiling.

As humans, we underestimate the effects simple things can have in our lives over the impact of seemingly complex things.

We pedestalise success and see it as life’s ultimate goal or reward. Everyone loves stories about a person going from rags to riches. Even better, an average person who went on to become a success because we can relate to that person in some way.

Their stories give us dreams, hope, and motivation.

As a result, we think we need more money and success to feel better and be happier. During the process, we can forget to be kind to ourselves and others.

But smiling, even if fake, can brighten our mood and make us feel better.

In the book ‘The Silent Guides’, Professor Steve Peters talks about how smiling signals to our brain that we must be happy and improves our mood. Your brain cannot tell whether you’re happy or forcing a smile. So, even a forced smile can improve the chances of happiness. In contrast, forcing a frown increases your likelihood of being sad or angry.

It also has a mirroring effect; smiling at others makes them more likely to smile back. Smiling at others is also associated with that person having a perception of you being more intelligent, friendly and attractive.

In one particular anecdote, when Professor Steve worked in a health clinic for depressed individuals, most staff or doctors also reported feeling depressed. Mainly because the clinic had plenty of patients with sad expressions; he remembers one instance where he smiled at a patient. As a response, the patient commented that he felt better after seeing him.

Professor Steve also mentions how, for him, a fake smile is better than no smile at all. But with a little effort, all of us can dig up something to smile about and have a positive outlook in life.

However, like all good things, it takes practice, especially if you’re not a natural smiler like me. To make a habit of smiling, start by:

• Practising smiling in front of a mirror. Note how you feel and what it may look like to others. Memorise the feeling so you can recreate that moment.
• Put a smiley-face visual around your place. (e.g., mirror at home, computer in your office, your phone’s screensaver, in your car). You’ll be reminded to smile.
• Greet or say goodbye to others with a smile.
• When on a video call, open with a smile.
• Have a moment of gratitude. Think, “Wow! I have a great life because of XYZ” Because you do!

I, myself, have been a miserable sod chasing after dreams, goals, and success.

But recently, I have been practising and trying to smile often. In the few weeks I have done this, it has positively changed my life, well-being, and outlook. It is slowly changing how I interact with people around me, including my family (to whom I have been a bit arsy).

The best thing about smiling is that it doesn’t cost a thing; it only requires effort from your side.

So smile more 🙂

👋 Hi there, reader!

I write about health, fitness, and wellness.

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