Part 2, Chapter 1: A simple way to make a good first impression.

Principle 2: Smile

Smiling – seems pretty obvious.

Actions speak louder than words.
A smile says “I like you. You make me happy. I am glad to see you.”

The author talks about smiling when you talk, that it comes through your voice. It made me think about how people have a “customer service” voice. (I know I do). You tend to speak differently because you know it sounds more welcoming or ‘happier’ and that people will respond better.

He points out that people rarely succeed at anything unless they have fun doing it. This can be work related or personally. You perform better if you enjoy your job. Even mundane tasks. Cleaning becomes more enjoyable if you have a good playlist to listen to.

The author brought up a challenge he posed to his students about smiling every day. Those that participated had better energy in their workplace and at home. They were welcomed more by their coworkers and had a better family life.

Happiness depends on our inner conditions.

Abraham Lincoln was quoted say, “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

Why do you think there are so many books or podcasts about changing our mindset?

The chapter ends with a note that a department store posted during Christmas time to remind their customers of a few things titled “The Value of a Smile at Christmas”. One that stuck out the most to end the chapter on was “It costs nothing, but creates much.”