The “Smile” is a powerful tool that we all possess. Some people just naturally smile and I find those people bubbly and normally have a positive attitude. Even when they are upset, that smile isn’t too far away. I find it so much easier to talk to a person who smiles than to a person that doesn’t. The person with the smile portrays to be friendlier than one that doesn’t.
Everyone has responsibility. Responsibility is made up of two words: response and ability. That means everyone has the “ability” to “respond” any way they want to a given situation. You can either frown or smile but in both cases, the outcome doesn’t change. So, smile, and you might not really get that upset. In fact, you might even actually relax. Hmm, doesn’t that sound weird?
I don’t totally understand the psychological effects of a smile, so I did a little research. Apparently, when you smile, dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin are released into your bloodstream that actually helps your body relax. Here is a great article to read that explains more about the positive effects of a smile.
I know a person that gets upset very easily and she truly dislikes change. She works in a store environment and anytime there is a management change, she gets upset. Even to the point at times of not wanting to go to work. So, I advised her to smile when she gets upset. I explained that she won’t be able to stay upset and mad while she’s smiling. It’s just not possible. Well, she tried it and she discovered that she felt better.
It is amazing that the brain just won’t allow you to be mad when you smile. I find it similar to other mind tricks that you can’t control. For example, lift your right foot a few inches from the floor and then begin to move it in a clockwise direction. While you’re doing this, use your right index finger to draw a number 6 in the air. Your foot will now start turning in a counterclockwise direction and there’s nothing you can do about it!
So the next time you get upset with someone or something, force yourself to smile. You might just find out that you really can’t stay mad.
Great article!