Smiling is my thing.

I know, I know, it’s technically everyone’s thing, but it’s different for me because it holds a top spot on my “favorite things” list, a very competitive, very exclusive club that includes eating pizza on Friday nights and laughing until I can’t breathe.

To me, smiling is not simply a facial expression. Every day I see the impact a simple smile can have on a person and I truly believe it is one of the most beautiful things we humans can do.

Smiling is good for your soul and here are the reasons why:

1. It is yours and only yours. Your smile is unique to you. There is no makeup to enhance it; it is yours and only yours, and you have every right to show off those pearly whites whenever you please!

2. A smile says what words cannot. A smile can mean a multitude of things. It can be a form a flirtation, a silent way of saying hello, a healthy dose of sarcasm, whatever you want! A smile is what you make of it.

3. It is the direct result of your happiness. Humans smile because they cannot contain their happiness. We become so overjoyed, our bodies don’t know how to handle the excitement, so we have to smile in order to keep ourselves from exploding with glee.

4. A smile has the power to break barriers. Whether you’re studying abroad or simply want to talk to the cute guy from your Psych class, a smile is always the perfect solution. It has the ability to break down tough barriers such as different languages or the anxiety that goes hand and hand with meeting new people.

5. It is the best of both worlds. It’s true, a smile has the power to make someone’s day, but did you know it can also make your day too? Waking up with a smile on your face can improve your mental health and make your overall outlook on life more optimistic!

So, smile at others, smile at yourself, smile for love, and smile for whatever you feel deserves your happiness. Maybe it’ll end up on your list too! :)