THE “SMILE” FACTOR

Is it possible to fool the BRAIN’S perception of LIFE using the MOUTH? What do I mean? Well, let’s look at the following example:

Both families seem to be enjoying themselves. One group is PASSIVELY playing video games while the second group is ACTIVELY exercising. Both sets of families are likely benefiting from these activities. Each family seems to be enjoying “family time” together. How can you tell these PASSIVE and ACTIVE activities add qualitative VALUE to each family?

THE “SMILING” FACTOR

These facial expressions can override the brain’s ability to focus on negative aspects of any activity. Those choosing not to smile have a greater tendency to create obstacles that interfere with their own HAPPINESS.

The act of jogging can be strenuous and monotonous, yet the “smiling family” finds joy in the experience. Playing video games with parents won’t help children achieve higher video scores, but the “smile factor” somehow supersedes this purpose while achieving fun and quality family interaction.

The next set of pictures also shows two families participating in the same type of PASSIVE and ACTIVE activities. Can you see the missing component from each picture?

THE “SMILING” FACTOR

So many people are under the impression that healthy living can only be achieved by focusing on healthy activities with PURPOSE. Although healthy activities are important, a healthy ATTITUDE is just as important. Drudgery (in the name of health) doesn’t typically achieve the best outcomes. Learning to develop a HEALTHY ATTITUDE under different circumstances produces healthier physical and emotional results.

HOW DO WE TRANSLATE THIS INTO REAL LIFE?

We start by learning to view basic needs from a new and healthier perspective. The following are two examples.

• We stop looking at diets as “sacrifices” and start appreciating the results of  healthier eating. We start enjoying the increased energy; we start enjoying fewer mood swings; we start enjoying the feeling and desire to do more for ourselves (as well as participate more with our families.) This new ATTITUDE translates into a happier person more capable of SMILING with intent.

• We stop looking at exercise as punishment for the lifestyle we’ve lived. We start viewing it as an ESSENTIAL part of EVERYONE’S LIFE (regardless of one’s current weight.) Our new ATTITUDE gives us a chance to use exercise as a healthy stress release while providing physical support to our bodies. We stop RESENTING exercise as a necessary EVIL to achieve a desired weight and appearance. We start appreciating it for its PURPOSEFUL ROLE in achieving the quality of life desired. Viewing exercise from this perspective makes it easier to SMILE. The enjoyment we begin to feel from simple smiling propels us faster and further down a path of greater HAPPINESS and increased SELF CONFIDENCE.

A POSITIVE HAPPY facial expression can take almost any situation and make it better and easier to deal with and accept. Why not consider a healthier easier approach to life (if you find your current approach is creating:)

more days of this:

than this:

Tags: attitude, emotions, health, lifestyle, motivation, quality of life, success