A big smile can create a nonverbal connection with another person who might really need it.

Smiles are free but priceless.

While scrolling through Facebook, I came across a post by my friend Joe Moye, who shared a couple simple tips to brighten your day and someone else’s. His tips really got me thinking…. Besides suggesting that we sing out loud at the top of our lungs he also suggested to smile at strangers as if we know them. Well, I love the thought of singing songs at the top of my lungs but for the sake of this post, I’m going to run with his suggestion of smiling at strangers as if we know them. 

Smiling at strangers as if we know them. Give them a big, ear-to-ear grin! At first, it may feel uncomfortable for you and it might even catch the receiver off guard, and they might even think you're a little crazy, but that's only because we don't typically smile at strangers. We tend to keep our heads down and avoid making connections.

Let's change that. A big smile can create a nonverbal connection with another person who might really need it. Loneliness and isolation are epidemic. According to the U.S Surgeon General (2023), loneliness, and isolation are considered the new smoking. Creating connection is the remedy. Connecting with others is one of the key principles of the Blue Zones for better health and happiness. It's amazing how a simple smile, which costs us nothing and requires little effort, can generate such powerful positive emotions in both the giver and the receiver and ultimately creates connection. 

We all have the ability to share the gift of a smile today. Whether you're walking into the grocery store, post office, hardware store, or simply taking a stroll through town or your neighborhood, smile at someone you don't know. You never know—it might be just what they needed to brighten their day. Plus, it will bring you more happiness and help you feel more connected in the world.

We can all make the world a little bit better, happier, and more connected by simply sharing a smile. If you believe in the power of a smile to change someone's day and create a ripple effect of better health, happiness, and connection, please share this message. 

Spread the word!  A simple smile can create such a powerful connection to one another and to our humanity. We need this.