But I think that for the majority of us, smiling can make a difference in our everyday lives. We have a tendency to focus on our challenges in a way that generates negativity and weighs us down. When we place this focus instead on being cheerful despite any problems we might encounter, something changes. With a smile comes increased productivity and sensitivity to our surroundings. A smile brings out the best in us.

I admit that finding the strength to smile can be a challenge in and of itself. There are definitely moments when I feel like it is not even worth the effort. But I realize that during those times, I need an attitude adjustment more than anything else.

I should always be willing and ready to make an effort to smile. In fact, there is no excuse for someone like me to not be smiling. I have too much to be grateful for. That is the key. As soon as I start thinking about everything that I have going for me, the change in attitude I need comes automatically.

As I remember to smile, I also remember to reach out to others. When I have a good attitude, I am more likely to be aware of what others could use from me. I feel more capable of extending a warm greeting or giving a compliment that brings a smile to someone’s face.

On the flipside, I have noticed that when people around me are cheerful, I remember to wear a smile too. That sort of domino effect is the biggest way that I believe a single smile “sets everything straight” for all of us.