Did you know that in this world of uncertainty and stress we live in, just a smile drastically reduces stress inducing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline?
Research on the internet further reveals “A smile acts as a powerful, instant mood-booster by releasing serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, improving overall health. It lowers blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, and acts as a universal, approachable gesture that builds trust, strengthens relationships, and boosts confidence”. Can you imagine? Of course this magic called a smile has huge impact not only on you but the people you meet and interact with. A huge asset for people in professional services, especially for those in PR.
There is a caveat emptor though. Do smile when the smile is accepted. Just a smile especially at the wrong time can really ruin things! Another important aspect to remember. Today is the era of fake haters, especially with the Z generation taking their firm place in this world and society. No plastic smiles please. Smile genuinely and really. A smile boosts your confidence and gives you a positive and trustworthy aura. It actually uplifts the way you look, the face muscles help improve blood flow making you look bright and healthier. Furthermore did you know that even a fake smile can make your brain feel better? (Please only try this when you are on your own!)
Demystifying the Smile Mindset
A Smile Mindset is defined as “the practice of proactively using facial expressions to influence your emotions”.
In the current times, facial expressions are much more noticeable with the high advent of social media. Remember that in normal conversations, business meetings etc., your body language plays a major role but whether in virtual meetings or in the reels or photos you post, the camera zooms in and others can notice your expressions much more. It’s like the difference between theatre and cinema. Cinema brings the actors much close and theatre keeps the actors on stage. There are some basic changes in your behaviour and the way you are wired to that you need to make before you can evolve to this mindset. However, this is one of the easiest mindsets you can evolve to.
How do you develop a Smile Mindset?
Research reveals that developing a smile mindset means rewiring your brain to default to optimism and resilience.
The first step is to analyse your existing bunch of mindsets and the way you are wired. Do you smile or frown more. You may need a mindset development buddy. Someone you trust and essentially has your good at heart and will give you genuine feedback. Do a personal analysis with your buddy. The create a roadmap to evolve to this mindset, even if it’s easy. Then start taking small real steps. The first and most important step is to develop gratitude and positivity. A simple end of the day jot down and acknowledgement of all the good things that have happened to you is a perfect start. The biggest test that you should pass with flying colours is to smile through stress.
The super power of a Smile Mindset
Possessing a Smile Mindset has tremendous power that you can use, and the most significant aspect here is that you do not have to make a conscious effort. The first power is that you create a feel good within yourself which naturally gets transmitted to the people who come in contact with you. Your team, your family, your client, almost anyone. According to Harvard Medical School’s Harvard Health Publishing, optimism—which is linked to smiling—is associated with a lower risk of early death from cancer and infection. Did you know that a baby smiles in the womb and even at infancy? Smiling is inbuilt we just need to make sure that we don’t suppress it. Smiling is also infectious. In many countries in the world you smile at strangers and they smile back. A perfect form of spontaneous communication.
“I love those who can smile in trouble.”
Leonardo da Vinci
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