Saturday, 16 February 2013

‘Social’ Intelligence: Smile; It Looks Good on You


Even though I am fully aware that today is Saturday and not Monday, I will endeavour to sound as convincing and practical as possible because today’s topic is very dear to me.

Naturally, the reason for that is that I am one of those annoying people that are constantly smiling, regardless of the circumstances or people around me.

I shall do my utmost best to avoid philosophising and shall opt to provide you with a practical guide and a logical explanation of why you should be smiling 24/7.

Now then, where shall I start...

Smiling makes you look good

When you facial expression is neutral or you’re frowning, it gives people the impression that there is something terribly, horribly wrong. It also suggests to most people that it’s only a matter of time before your start ‘sharing’ your ‘problem’ with them.

And by sharing, I mean whinging and by problem, I mean nothing.

On the other hand, when you are smiling, your face lights up and you give the impression of a positive and funny person who will surely brighten up everyone’s day.

And brightening up the day is a big thing; at least in England...

Smiling changes your mood

Quite logical, really; in order to smile, you often have to think of hilarious things, and fast, so that you can bring up the smile on your face as soon as possible.

All those images of funny cats and random auto- correct texts are bound to put you in good spirits.

Smiling makes you look successful

That’s simply because it denotes to people that you either have no problems or have some problems but they are too miniscule and can be ignored.
And, let’s face it: in today’s economic downturn, only successful people can do that with a straight face.

Smiling increases your life span

Leaving the science aside for a second, people who smile tend to me be more positive and relaxed which makes it easier for them to promptly make the right decision and not stress out too much even if they don’t.

Smiling releases endorphins and serotonin

You didn’t know that, did you now? When smiling, the muscles on your face are pulled in a way that triggers the brain to release endorphin which acts as a natural pain killer. 

Similarly, the process of smiling releases high levels of serotonin (a natural anti- depressant) which dramatically shifts our mood from negative to positive.


Smiling helps you interact with people more easily

It’s a lot easier to approach someone with a smile on their face because you assume that they are friendly and talkative. A smile invites people to be more open and is often contagious which can highly relieve the tension or disperse the awkward silence in, say, a business meeting.


Last but not least, it must, at all times, be remembered that a smile is STILL FREE.

Thus, even in today’s economic downturn, you’re free to use and abuse it.

Smile your troubles away; trust me, it helps.




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