World Smile Day was celebrated earlier this month. Harvey Ball, its creator, believed you could improve the world one smile at a time. Perhaps there’s some truth in this belief, so I’ve been doing a little research….
Whether it’s a grin, a smirk, beam or a smile, you will instantly feel the benefits of this happy facial expression. I can imagine you smiling as you read this, and I’d like to think that right now you’re feeling the positive effects of that smile.
Smiling not only offers a mood boost but also helps our bodies release cortisol and endorphins that provide numerous health benefits, including:
· Reduced blood pressure
· Increased endurance
· Reduced pain
· Reduced stress
· Strengthened immune system
How often do you smile at work?
If you’re now out and about a bit more, and meeting with clients, then make sure you smile. Studies have shown that those who smile appear more likeable, courteous and competent. They also say smilers are more productive at work and make more money….. What do you think? I’m not sure. I’ve met some very miserable people who’ve been very successful in business, but perhaps they’re the exception….
If you’re currently working from home, you might find you’re smiling less as a result of fewer interactions throughout your day. If you feel this is the case, then it might be time to be a more proactive smiler!
Try the smile challenge
To start flexing your smile muscles more often, try one of these activities:
ü Post it note challenge – Gather 10 colourful post-it notes and write on them things, place and people who make you smile. Stick these notes places that you regularly walk past.
ü Waiting Challenge – when you find yourself waiting for something, a bus, traffic, in a queue. Stop and smile – do others smile back?
ü 19 Challenge – apparently we all have 19 different smiles. How many can you photograph? Ask friends and family to have a go too.
So keep smiling because life is a beautiful thing and there’s so much to smile about!
If you’d like to learn more about our business community at the Family Business Practice, please do get in touch. I’d love for you to come along to one of our sessions as my guest.
