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MCC Daily Tribune Archive

Smile – A Message from the Civility Project


Did you know smiles are contagious? Scientists conducted a study in Sweden and found that people had difficulty frowning when they looked at other subjects who were smiling. Also in the study, some of the subject’s muscles twitched into smiles all on their own (ScienceBlog, 2002). Smiles have been known to have positive effects such as relieving stress, boosting the immune system, helping mood, and increasing attraction. A smile is an amazing and simple way to have a positive impact on someone’s day. With a smile you can have a ripple effect, like a pebble being tossed into a pond, spreading far beyond the first person you reach.

Simple Ways to Be Intentional about Smiling:

* When someone smiles at you, smile back. The more you smile, the easier it gets.
* Smile when you answer your phone. People can hear the difference in your voice, and it can produce positive results.
* Smiling makes others feel welcome, special, and appreciated. So when you are with your friends, family, and coworkers be aware of your demeanor.
* Think positively about yourself and others. Through that mind-set, smiling will come more naturally.
* Be the first one to smile when you walk into a room.

 So start your day with a smile! If you give a little smile, you can a get a little smile back.

 https://youtu.be/6scAF0FAspo

Chris Hamm
The Civility Project: Making Courtesy Common
03/28/2013