I'll admit it. There are times when I don't feel like smiling.
Maybe someone is rude. Maybe I'm having an off day. Maybe something doesn't go the way I planned. In those moments, my first reaction isn't always positive.
Then I usually catch myself and remember something important: my response is on me.
I can't control what someone else says or does, but I can control how I react. More often than not, I choose to smile.
One of my favorite things is watching what happens next.
Sometimes the person smiles right back. Sometimes a tense moment softens. Sometimes a stranger who looked lost in thought suddenly lights up for a second. Not every time, but most of the time.
A smile has a funny way of changing the energy between people.
The best part? It doesn't just affect the other person. It affects me too. It's hard to stay stuck in a bad mood when you're making a conscious effort to look for the good in a situation.
Over the next few days, I encourage you to take on the Smile Challenge. Smile at the cashier, the person walking their dog, your neighbor, a coworker, or even the stranger who accidentally cuts in front of you.
Not everyone will smile back, and that's okay.
The goal isn't to change them. The goal is to see what changes in you.
Smile at Everyone and Help Someone Have a Zenatudinal Day!