By: Z. Ziglar
The dictionary says that to smile is to “look joyous,” or “to have an
appearance to excite joy; to contract the features of the face in such a manner
as to express pleasure, moderate joy, or love and kindness.”
Generally speaking, the first thing we notice when we meet a person is
the smile—or absence of same—on their face. A favorite compliment is,
“You certainly have a beautiful smile.” Factually, there are very few
things that influence for the good and give more encouragement than a sincere
smile. Henry Miller said, “There is power in a smile. It is one of
the best relaxation exercises I know of.” Joseph Addison said, “What
sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity. They are but trifles, to
be sure, but, scattered along life’s pathway, the good they do is
inconceivable.”
Several years ago a study revealed something that most people have
known for a long time. After weeks of testing the appearance, personality
and attitudes of subjects and their influence on others, the professors at Yale
University discovered that a smile is the single most powerful force of
influence that people have. That’s good news, because all of us can
generate enough energy for a smile.
A smile has been identified as the “little curve that sets a lot of
things straight,” and we’re often told that if we see someone who does not have
a smile, we should give them one of ours. However, we must do more than
smile if we’re going to be successful in having a long-term impact on other
people.
If we’re really going to influence people after we’ve gotten favorable
attention with a pleasant smile, we must communicate with sincerity and
honesty. Now, obviously, a university study should not be required to
know that, because the saying is still true that you communicate what you
are. In summation, a warm, friendly smile is a very fine thing.
Think about it. Better yet, try it.
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