Do you have trouble liking other people?

I’m an introvert by nature. For as long as I remember, pulling a sincere smile when meeting someone has never been easy.

The key to a sincere smile however, is simple. It’s to be excited. But that’s the source of the problem. Being introvert that I am, when meeting people, instead of being excited, I often feel distracted, wary, or self-absorbed.

But we all know having friends are important. The more you have, the more opportunities you get. Whether it’s job opportunities, a romantic relationship, business partner, or even a partner in crime….

So where does smile fit in, in this algorithm. A smile is important to make others feel comfortable. I’m not talking about a perfunctory grimace we pull to cashiers or waiters. I’m talking about those wide smiles you make when meeting old friends.

So I’ve discovered a trick. I call this technique, “Omg it’s Jamie!”

When I meet someone, I imagine an old friend of mine call Jamie. She was my first crush back when I was still a snot kid down the street. It’s no secret why my smile is as wide as I can possibly make. And it’s not just the smile, my tone and attitude turn warmer as well.

And the best part, whenever you’re friendly to others, they turn friendly in return. You’re not hearing this from me. A research done actually back this claim. So do remember to give it a try.

PS: It goes without saying that you should have “Jamie” changed to whoever you feel like meeting the most out of your list of long lost friends.

Photo Credit: Shashomasho

I love life because what’s more is there. Anthony Hopkin

This is going to be a short post. Thought I share with you why it feels good to be alive, even though like many others, I do have my fair share of sob moments. Enjoy.

1. When you smile, the world smiles with you.

2. Given the average lifespan, we have approximately 70 years to make it right.

3. Success is simply a matter of changing our habits and way of thinking.

4. Talent does not make up for hard work, but hard work make up for talent.

5. Life is more than simply making money.

6. There are no scarce in opportunities for those who are looking.

7. With dedication, any skills you desire can be obtained.

8. Our happiness is not dependent on external factors.

9. Anything that does not kill you only makes you stronger and wiser.

10. Procrastination is in fact healthy.

11. Much of sadness can be omitted by simply focusing on the positive side of things.

12. Treat other kindly and you will be treated the same.

13. The more you give, the more you receive.

14. Laughter is a click away, and it’s free.

15. People do forgive when you sincerely ask for it.

16. Love, and be loved in return.

17. Not everyone is materialistic and selfish.

18. Hard work does pay off one way or another.

19. Joy can be found by simply having a hobby.

20. Making friends is as easy as taking the initiative to get to know the other person.

21. Just by wanting less, you’ll be richer, and happier.

22. Ask and you shall receive.

23. With internet, knowledge is now just a click away.

24. Whatever emotional pain you may be feeling, the beauty of nature never fails to ease the soul.

25. Even without having a company, most of outdoor activities can be done on our own.

26. Responsibility is not as bad as many made it sound.

27. There is still way too many wonderful places to visit, new dishes to try and new people to meet.

28. Love yourself and you will find love in abundance.

29. Having a family is the most beautiful thing that could happen to any of us.

30. There are plenty of interesting things one could do at the comfort of his own couch.

31. Reading a good book or watching a good movie can often make our day.

32. Reality does not restrict our imaginations.

33. When giving to the poor, the smile on their face is worth more than what we give.

34. With dedication, impossible is nothing.

35. Don’t worry about mistakes. It actually makes us wiser.

36. The more we fail, the higher our chances to succeed.

37. Unlike a relationship, love need not reciprocal and conditional.

38. Finding your passion is the best thing you could do for yourself.

39. There are tons of strangers who are willing to help us on the internet.

40. There are still plenty of good people than the bad ones.

41. If you think life is awesome, then life is.

Have anything to add? I would love to hear your thoughts.