Smiling at work!

First of all, what is a smile?

The Université de Sherbrooke offers a number of definitions of a smile. Here are two that are particularly interesting: "To take on a slightly laughing expression, with a particular movement of the lips and eyes[1]" and "To cast a favorable and kind glance at something[2]".

So here we understand that smiling is expressed through the entire facial expression, rather than just the mouth. The second definition brings us a totally different angle, demonstrating that smiling is an action with a positive connotation.

Why smile at work?

1. Smiles are free: distribute as many as you like, it takes little effort and there's no cost.

2. Smiles are contagious[3]: It's rare for someone who receives a smile not to return one back.

3. Smiles help to manage stress: The transport business is a fast-paced environment. There can be dozens of unforeseen events in a day (equipment breakdowns, deadlines to meet, congestion, staff shortages, etc.). So when your stress levels rise, smiling can help you stay in better control, because smiling triggers a natural chemical reaction in your body[4].

4. Smiles are positive: The action of smiling communicates to the people around you that you're in control, that you enjoy what you do, and that you're available to them.

For all these reasons, put on your best smile at work! It'll make for a better day!

[1] https://usito.usherbrooke.ca/d...

[2] https://usito.usherbrooke.ca/d...

[3] http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/sci...

[4] Kraft TL, Pressman SD. Grin and bear it: the influence of manipulated facial expression on the stress response. Psychol Sci. 2012;23(11):1372-8. doi: 10.1177/0956797612445312. Epub 2012 Sep 24. PMID: 23012270.