Just Smile

Have you ever noticed how a smile from a stranger, a kind word, or an expression of genuine appreciation can affect your day in a powerfully positive manner?

Have you ever noticed how a glare, physical avoidance, or snarky comment can turn the sunniest of days into a stormy mess?

Have you ever noticed how the much the moods of those around you affect your own?

If so, you are not alone. The emotions of others can have an almost tangible and uncontrollable influence on our own. Just as it can be very difficult to forgive someone who is less than contrite, it can be easy to forget about a wrong committed by someone who is genuine and congenial.

For instance: Work at a plasma center goes much more smoothly if I make an effort to connect with each donor who comes through. If I leave them with a good impression of my capabilities, even once, mistakes are overlooked and then entire process seems to be just another pleasant encounter.

Today I had a donor request me for the first time. It wasn't because I'm a terrific phlebotomist -- it was because he enjoys talking to me. I make a point of saying hello every time he comes in and keeping a running dialog. Little things like that help people to know that they are valued. And that can make all the difference.

If you find that life is a bit of a drag and things simply aren't coming together, try out this little tip and let me know how it goes: make it a point to get at least one person to smile a day. If you can bring a moment of light to one person's life, I promise that your own mood will be lifted and life will become just a little more bearable even when it seems crushingly oppressive.

love,
zam