Friday, May 31, 2013

Will smiling make you happy?

I just read about a study the other day that showed when we smile, we actually can affect our happiness and contentment. I suppose it's that "fake it until you make it" concept.

If you smile and act as though you are happy, and keep that smile on your face, you will feel better. Conversely, if you wear a frown, you will not find nor create much joy in your day!

I have also heard that phone conversations go much better when you smile into the phone. Hmmm, that's worth a try if you have a cranky person on the other end of the line.

It may sound silly. But I can believe that it does make a difference. As Charles Gordy said, "A smile is an inexpensive way to change your looks." Turns out, it's much more than that. I just found a website that lists 10 hidden benefits of smiling. It's packed with links to all manner of studies about smiling. Who knew?

One thing we do know, though. Smiles are contagious. Ever meet someone on the street or in a store who gave you a huge smile even though you didn't know them? Didn't it give you a pick-me-up? And did you pay it forward to the next person you met? Me, too.

Happiness really is a choice. If you've read my other blogs, you know I always qualify that by saying that I don't expect you to choose happiness when grief and sadness really are the appropriate place for you to dwell for a time. But if you haven't sustained a loss or if you don't suffer from severe depression, all else being equal, perhaps it's a good day to choose happiness. It might be time to try out a smile!

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