Simple smiles make me feel better; they make everyone feel better. Whether you are one smiling or person seeing a smile, they communicate friendliness, happiness, content, etc. Those are emotions I like to grab on to when my day isn't going so well.

Think of how you feel when you are walking down street and a gentleman walking in other direction smiles and bids you a good morning. You feel acknowledged and grateful for kind gesture.

Anyone who uses telephone to earn a living knows that wearing a smile improves way they sound to person on other end of telephone, even if they can't see it. Those who wear smiles appear more lively, enthusiastic, and friendly. Those who don't, tend to be more monotone and dull.

The same effect happens in real life when you smile at someone. What you say to them will not only ring better in their ears, but will be of more interest.

Smilers also find they are happier than people who don't bother to shape their lips. By forcing yourself to smile for a short period of time, you will create a habit that improves your mood, and, ultimately, your outlook on life.

Smile at everyone you see, spread disease, and you will see world turning into a place you don't mind being.

SHEER LAZINESS?

That is a likely contributor, isn't it? For some folks, initiative is simply not in their vocabulary. The very idea of seeing what needs to be done and doing it without direction exhausts them. These folks usually lose their jobs and blame their employers.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?

These folks do not understand 'Give First' philosophy. No, it's not airy-fairy, pie-in-the-sky thinking. In all areas of life, if your focus is on giving, you'll end up with a lot more. I'm not talking about 'I-don't-know-you-but-I-love you' kind of giving, either. Place yourself in a work environment that helps you. Notice that even doing something you do not love will give you a pay check and that is helpful! Give first. Do your job well and you will get your pay check regularly. You may even be promoted.

WHAT CAN I GET AWAY WITH?

No one will notice if I put these in wrong place or take an extra ten minutes on my lunch hour. Wrong. People notice. The boss may take a while to notice but your co-workers catch on right away...and, they don't like it! You are creating a problem.

WHY SHOULD I?

Ever had thought, 'They are just not paying me enough to do this much'? That could be true. You have options. Negotiate a higher salary or a reduced work load, find another job or adjust your attitude. There is no magic. Some employers want a pound of flesh while paying for a pittance. Often, though, you will be rewarded for pitching in and pulling your weight. After all, you chose job.

WORKING FOR A PAY CHECK ONLY?

Sometimes we've all had to do this. I remember doing it at times when I was a young mother on my own with three children. We do what we have to do, AND, you can still do it with right attitude. That pay check is important, so, give good value to person who is giving it to you. Remember, they do not have to have you there. Making yourself invaluable in any job has its own rewards. You'll get a good reference when you leave. You'll feel better while you're at work. Your work time will pass more quickly when you are involved. Your colleagues will appreciate you and you'll feel better about yourself.

SO....ARE YOU DOING YOUR BEST AT WORK?

It's all in your attitude and willingness. The most compelling reason I can give you for doing your best at work is that you'll feel better. Focus on doing a good job. Go extra mile. Remember that excellence is in details. Give full value for time paid. You'll not only feel better, you'll feel better about yourself.

Looking good is a beginning. Doing a good job is where real satisfaction is found.