For today's challenge, smile!
Why smile?
When you smile, your brain releases tiny molecules called neuropeptides to help fight off stress. Then other neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and endorphins come into play too. The endorphins act as a mild pain reliever, whereas the serotonin is an antidepressant.
(“The Real Health Benefits of Smiling and Laughing”)
Why does smiling make us happier?
I find it absolutely amazing that just actually making the smile gesture triggers feel good hormones in your body. Evidently, if you hold a pencil in your mouth, it forces it into the correct position and will trigger this response. The lesson is, even if you don't feel happy, learn to smile, and you will feel better.
Smiling is also important as we work. It can boost our productivity, as it triggers good feelings, and we are more productive when we feel better. This is especially important as a team leader since our smiles are contagious and can trigger smiles and good feelings in our teammates, giving them more energy to work. Furthermore, that social connection is also enhanced as you smile at people and make them feel better by seeing your smile.
How can you do it?
Well, if you feel happy, it won't be a challenge, but at the very least, try to give a genuine smile when you look at people. Then, if you are not feeling happy or just want to trigger those feel good hormones, try holding a pencil in your mouth as you are sitting at the computer -especially if your energy is lagging or you are starting to feel stressed or angered at something.
Give me a smile!!!
“The Real Health Benefits of Smiling and Laughing.” Sclhealth.org, 2018, www.sclhealth.org/blog/2019/06/the-real-health-benefits-of-smiling-and-laughing/#:~:text=When%20you%20smile%2C%20your%20brain,the%20serotonin%20is%20an%20antidepressant.. Accessed 16 Aug. 2022.