I’ve been thinking a lot about smiling lately. I read Sue Stephenson’s new book, Kidding Around: Connecting Kids to Happiness, Laughter and Humour. She talks about helping the children and teens in your life find happiness. Being mindful about all that is good is an important component. Smiling and laughing is just as important. Children tend to smile a lot more than adults, and we need to nurture that. We also need to nurture it in ourselves.
Have you noticed that a lot of people don’t smile that much? Look around next time you’re in a meeting or walking down the street. Maybe we are aren’t aware of how important it is to smile, or maybe we feel there aren’t too many reasons to do it. I love to smile and laugh, so I’ve got lots of reasons! Here are five reasons for you to smile more.
1) Researchers have found that the act of smiling can actually make you feel better and happier. So even when you’re feeling bad, try a big smile, and let it reach your eyes!
2) Watch The Hidden Power of Smiling, a Ted Talk by Ron Gutman. Fascinating. And, it will make you smile!
3) The education business is about making schools and other learning spaces safe, welcoming and inclusive. Take the time to stop, smile and say hello to students, parents and colleagues. Do it every day. You’ll notice a difference in how people treat you right away.
4) Smiling leads to laughter. When was the last time you laughed so much that your stomach hurt? Find a way to get there. Start with a smile.
5) We all crave caring and a sense of belonging. Try “eye hugs”. What’s that? A smile that reaches the eyes and is just for the person on the other end. We may not be able to hug kids in schools, but we can sure give eye hugs!
Happy smiling! 🙂
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