It seems like such a little thing…just a smile. But a smile has the power to change someone’s day. A smile conveys so much more than just the physical change of facial expression. As we go about our days and interact with loved ones, friends and strangers, we should recognize the power of a smile and how we can bring more joy to the world with such a simple and easy thing.
The definition of power is the ability to do something and to direct or influence others. Synonyms of power are control, sway, influence and impact. Considering these definitions, it is easy to see that the great power of a smile. A smile is something that we all have the ability to do and costs us nothing but yet gives so much.
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.
Leo Buscaglia
A smile conveys so much
When is the last time you were walking past strangers (at work, the store or in your daily routine) and someone looked up at you and smiled? I hope it was recently. How did that smile make you feel? More than likely you felt uplifted and more positive. Maybe the smile made you feel welcome in an unfamiliar place. A smile can make you feel noticed. Smiles can even make you feel safe and like there are friendly people to help you. A smile is a non-verbal communication that conveys so much.
A smile is contagious
Have you ever noticed that when you smile at someone they often smile back? If you catch someone’s eye and offer them a smile, you will often get a smile in return. Try it sometime in a waiting room or in the store. Even a forced smile can ignite a smile in someone. When you share a smile with someone you can cause them to smile in return and brighten their day.
The power of a smile is free
Of all the things we seek power in, the power of a smile is free. We all have the ability to smile and influence those around us. We can influence social situations, our mood and the moods of others simply be manipulating our face. Think of smiling at someone as a simple act of kindness that can change the course of their day (more about acts of kindness here). We all have this power within us and it is our choice how to use it.
I will never understand all the good that a simple smile can accomplish.
Mother Teresa
There are so many good things all around us. We each have the power to choose what we see and how we react. If you seek to find the good in the world and impact others in a positive way, I suggest you exercise the ability you have to smile. You will look better, feel better and share a little more joy with others.
Challenge for this week:
- Instead of looking down at your phone or the floor when you are in a public place, make eye contact with someone and smile. Notice if they smile back.
- Take notice of how many people smile at you and feel grateful for this good in your life.
Resources:
I am not an expert on the topic of smiling, but Ron Gutman is someone who is. He has done extensive research on the power of smiling and presents his findings in a great Ted Talk on the subject. You can read part of his talk here or watch the presentation for yourself here.