Training Tools- Say CHEESE!
In a fast-paced and demanding work environment, a smile holds immense power. It may seem simple, but its effects can be profound. Smiling has the ability to uplift spirits, enhance morale, and transform the workplace into an enjoyable space. Not only does it contribute to our mental and physical well-being, but it also plays a significant role in improving our professional relationships and overall work performance. Let's delve into why smiling matters at work and the benefits it brings to both individuals and organizations.
Creating a Positive Environment
When we smile, we have the power to create a positive environment that resonates with those around us. Studies have shown that smiles are contagious and can positively impact our immediate surroundings. By sharing our smiles with colleagues, we contribute to a workplace culture that is welcoming and fosters positivity. This, in turn, helps alleviate stress and tension.
Enhancing Mental and Physical Health
Smiling has numerous health benefits that extend beyond the workplace. When we smile, our brains release endorphins—natural feel-good chemicals—that reduce stress and improve our mood. Additionally, smiling has been linked to lower blood pressure, decreased heart rate, and improved immune function. Cultivating a habit of smiling at work can have a significant positive impact on our mental and physical well-being, leading to an overall sense of well-being.
Improving Professional Relationships
Smiling serves as a vital nonverbal communication tool, facilitating the development of stronger professional relationships. When we smile at our colleagues, we signal approachability, friendliness, and openness to communication. This helps build trust and rapport, ultimately leading to more effective collaboration and enhanced teamwork. By consciously choosing to smile more often, we can improve our relationships with colleagues and contribute to a more positive and productive workplace.
Boosting Work Performance
Research has shown that smiling can actually boost our work performance. When we smile, we tend to feel more confident, enabling us to perform better in high-pressure situations. Moreover, smiling enhances our creativity and problem-solving abilities, enabling us to generate innovative solutions to workplace challenges.
New Employee Spotlight
Destiny Lemus
A graduate of Vanguard University of Southern California with a BA in Psychology, Destiny Lemus is passionate about de-stigmatizing mental illness. The Asana Recovery Behavioral Health Technician says one of her biggest goals has been to work in mental health treatment. “I grew up in a closed-minded community that believed that mental illness and addiction were a choice,” she says. “Any time the topic was brought up, it came with a negative stigma. I have dedicated my education to breaking this stigma and being able to help others.”
Destiny grew up with six younger siblings who she helped her mother raise. Because hers was a “blended family,” she says diversity is very important to her. Now, she makes her home with a dog named Loki and two birds named Birdie and Snow. She loves family, music, and nature.
Destiny’s hobbies include fine arts, research, learning new things, and crime documentaries. Her interests make her well-prepared for her career goal of profiling for the FBI!
Welcome Back: Eric Wordlaw
A graduate of High Desert Medical College and former marine, Eric Wordlaw returned to the Asana Recovery team as a Medical Technician motivated by the desire to make a difference. An aspiring professional athlete and fitness enthusiast, Eric loves experiencing new things. Welcome back, Eric!
Trivia
Question: In what year was the first-ever Father’s Day celebrated?
Contact HR with your response for the chance to win a gift card!
Answer to last week’s trivia: 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans.
Last week’s winner was: Misty A.