If there's one thing I've learned about surviving the dismal state of our economy (and the 10% unemployment rate), it's that being anything less than optimistic is futile. Even when my frustration threatens to erupt, I check my attitude at the door. Or the log-in screen.
Frustration: I've filled out about a bajillion job applications.
Optimism: I could plant a virtual rain forest with the paper I've saved by filling them out online.
Frustration: My left wrist is chronically numb from the tension in my neck and shoulders.
Optimism: My massage therapist is amazing. Or, when I'm in a financial pinch (like now, for instance), my dad is a pretty awesome substitute. So is my BedBuddy heating pad.
Frustration: My increasingly pessimistic sense of despair.
Optimism: My smile.
Studies have shown that smiling is beneficial to your health, and not just because it's the universal symbol for happiness. Smiling can literally boost your mood because it releases endorphins (aka "happy brain chemicals").
Knowing this, I decided to do an experiment during my many tedious hours filling out applications. By the time I came up with the idea I had been filling out applications for hours, so I was good and grumpy.
So I pulled up the next online form, smiling big. It felt weird at first because I was in the wrong mood for jubilation, but after a few moments I noticed something interesting.
My shoulders had relaxed.
My eyes were less squinty.
I felt calmer.
Optimism had piggy-backed the endorphins, and my foul mood had lifted.
Not entirely, of course. I wasn't any more enthusiastic about finishing the application. But the smile had facilitated the necessary attitude adjustment to keep me dedicated to my task. As an added incentive I played some Springsteen, because listening to "my boyfriend" always makes me smile. Listening to music is known to have mood-boosting effects, as well.
Next time you are feeling discouraged, frustrated, or grouchy, I encourage you smile. Smile like you mean it, even if you don't. Your endorphins are gullible, they'll fall for it. Whether it's an all-day exercise or just long enough for you to get through a daunting task, smiling will make you feel better.
In the words of Nike: Just Do It. Smile through your frustrations. You'll thank me later. And your well-being will thank you.
Trust me.
Frustration: I've filled out about a bajillion job applications.
Optimism: I could plant a virtual rain forest with the paper I've saved by filling them out online.
Frustration: My left wrist is chronically numb from the tension in my neck and shoulders.
Optimism: My massage therapist is amazing. Or, when I'm in a financial pinch (like now, for instance), my dad is a pretty awesome substitute. So is my BedBuddy heating pad.
Frustration: My increasingly pessimistic sense of despair.
Optimism: My smile.
Studies have shown that smiling is beneficial to your health, and not just because it's the universal symbol for happiness. Smiling can literally boost your mood because it releases endorphins (aka "happy brain chemicals").
Knowing this, I decided to do an experiment during my many tedious hours filling out applications. By the time I came up with the idea I had been filling out applications for hours, so I was good and grumpy.
So I pulled up the next online form, smiling big. It felt weird at first because I was in the wrong mood for jubilation, but after a few moments I noticed something interesting.
My shoulders had relaxed.
My eyes were less squinty.
I felt calmer.
Optimism had piggy-backed the endorphins, and my foul mood had lifted.
Not entirely, of course. I wasn't any more enthusiastic about finishing the application. But the smile had facilitated the necessary attitude adjustment to keep me dedicated to my task. As an added incentive I played some Springsteen, because listening to "my boyfriend" always makes me smile. Listening to music is known to have mood-boosting effects, as well.
Next time you are feeling discouraged, frustrated, or grouchy, I encourage you smile. Smile like you mean it, even if you don't. Your endorphins are gullible, they'll fall for it. Whether it's an all-day exercise or just long enough for you to get through a daunting task, smiling will make you feel better.
In the words of Nike: Just Do It. Smile through your frustrations. You'll thank me later. And your well-being will thank you.
Trust me.
I like the way you illustrate the difference between frustration and optimism. Perception is the key in most situations and can make all the difference. I will try the smiling thing. I am not sure I can "fake it 'til I make it" but I will give it my best try. Thanks you for these words of encouragment. Brian
ReplyDeleteI thought I sent a comment already but don't see it posted so here is another. I really like the comparisons you make here. It is easy for me to forget to be optimistic and smiling as a way to improve one's mood is a great idea even if I have to "fake it 'til I make it." Thanks for the posts. Keep them coming. Brian
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