Why Should We Smile?

Smiling is part of human nature.  We are programmed at birth to smile -- ultrasounds have shown babies smiling in the last trimester.  A smile is the human equivalent of wagging a tail.  It tells people we are friendly and approachable.

Smiles - What Are They Good For?

Smiling has benefits that we often don't consider.  It subtly tells others the what kind of person you are.  They come in different shapes and sizes, but your smile is an important reflection of your personality.  Smiling is so important that studies have shown people can hear you smile over the telephone.  So, why should we smile?

1.  It reflects our inner beauty.

It's remarkable how a smile effects how people perceive our looks.  A smile makes your face and eyes radiate.  This can be the difference between being dismissed, or encouraging people to speak to you.

2.  It affects our mood.

Regardless of how we may feel, forcing a smile tricks our bodies into believing we feel better.  What started as forced soon becomes genuine.

3.  It relieves stress.

I have been accused of having "gallows humor" -- laughing when it may seem inappropriate.  But when we smile during a stressful situation we allow our brain a subtle reset.  This gives us time to formulate a plan of action to correct the problem.

4.  It improves your health.

Our bodies respond poorly to stress.  Often we'll get sick when dealing with an overly-stressful situation.  Smiling relaxes the body and allows the immune system to function properly.

5.  Smiling is a natural drug.

Studies have shown smiling releases endorphins, natural pain-killers, and serotonin.  This helps us feel better.

6.  Smiling makes us confident.

Smiling makes people more likely to want to work with you.  It reflects we are people who can be relied upon.

7.  It makes us look younger.

Seriously, look at yourself in the mirror when you are frowning, then smiling.  You just gave yourself a free face lift.

8.  You're more likely to get the job.

When a hiring manager has two candidates vying for the same job, they will hire the person who smiled.  Not only will it reflect confidence in your ability to do the job, but it says you are a person with whom the rest of the team can work with effectively.

Don't let your concerns about your smile adversely affect your life.  If you have a problem, consult a dentist.  It will be the best investment you can make in yourself.