Smile and the whole world smile with you (quote by Stanley Gordon West)
Scientists and spiritual teachers alike agree that the simple act of smiling can transform you and the world around you. Current research (and common sense) shows us that a smile is contagious. It can make us appear more attractive to others. It lifts our mood, as well as the moods of those around us. And it can even lengthen our lives
Early in my career I realized what a difference a smile can make both personally and professionally. Leading small and big groups with different stakeholders locally and globally a smile can change everything. Here are my reasons why we should smile more often as a leader.
Smiling is one of the best, quickest ways to connect with anyone from any culture. Even if you don’t speak the same language, a smile is universally appreciated. It opens the door, welcomes people into your world, and communicates acceptance. Even if people are frustrated or angry, a smile can often turn them around. In that moment you forge a connection.
When you look too intense, it creates a primal reaction in others. Their defenses go up. They become protective and guarded. A smile communicates that you are safe and can be trusted.
Have you ever noticed how you are attracted to people who smile and laugh a lot? The positive energy is contagious. You instinctively smile in response. The simple fact is that people naturally want to be around people who are happy. If you want others to follow you, you can start by smiling more.
If you want to change the culture of an organization, change the behavior of its leaders. People naturally play “follow the leader.” When leaders smile, everyone smiles. Smiles communicate that your organization is a happy place to work. And who doesn’t want to work where people are smiling and happy?
It elevates your mood. It literally affects you at a biological level, releasing endorphins and serotonins.
And don’t forget…
"Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy." —Thich Nhat Hanh
So keep on smiling and making the world a better place!
Have a nice weekend!
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About Breaking Boundaries Consulting;
At Breaking Boundaries, we challenge companies and their leadership to reach full potential. We create the right conditions for transformation. We combine project and change management with line management experience. In doing so, we've created solid business values; we're about efficiency and profitability.
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