The Art and Science of a Fake Smile

I strive to be authentic. And, I fake it 'til I make it. A lot. But maybe that is not as bad as it sounds.

I was watching a TED Talk* the other day on body language. We all know that our body language communicates to others. We also know that our body language communicates to ourselves. (When I slump, how do I feel?) What I found more interesting is the notion that our body language - even when fake - may shape the formation of neural pathways in the brain. Which is to say, body language may shape the long-term development of our cognition, emotion, and intuition - positively or negatively. 

One recommendation in the TED Talk - standing in mountain pose or superhero pose - comes naturally to me. At my standing desk. At presentations. When meeting others. On the other hand, smiling - especially at work - comes less naturally to me. When I am thinking hard or listening to others - which is how I spend most of my time at work - I naturally furl my brow, tighten my jaw, squint my eyes, cross my arms. That is, I close and scowl. Unintentional as it is, seems harmless enough. Or is it?

I have started to get very intentional about fake smiling. When I walk down the hall, I try really really hard to smile. Fake smiling is not a natural talent of mine. It is a struggle. I worry that people may perceive my smile attempts as crazed or completely losing it. The funny thing is, sometimes my awkward struggle amuses me so much that I actually smile.  

If what they say is true then my fake smile should become less and less fake over time. A fake smile should strength the neural pathways that dispose me to positive thinking and feeling happy. A fake smile should become a natural smile. 

In the meantime, I'll fake it. And add exclamation points to my emails! 😊

*Amy Cuddy, Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are