Life was so easy when we were children. It was a time of innocence, and being carefree and happy.

Now that I am in “real-life” and enveloped in the all the stresses that come along with it, I try to take a childlike approach to life. And I challenge all of you to try it as well.

I take on this challenge because being happy and laid-back doesn’t just make you and others feel good, it actually has a positive influence on your health.

Dale Anderson, M.D. says in his essay: Acting Happy,

 “Happiness is an infectious state that can definitely have an impact on your health. That’s because your brain comes equipped with an inner pharmacy that can help you be joyful and embrace life, lending a hand to make you feel years younger. They also benefit from neuropeptides like endorphins and other chemicals that bolster the immune system and promote well-being.”

And I know you are probably saying, “Well Ali, this isn’t a utopian society where everyone can just be happy all the time…” And I understand that. We all feel unhappy, stressed out and frustrated at times, but guess what!? We have the power to change and be happy simply by acting happy even when we’re not.

Act happy. It is that simple. We can sometimes trick ourselves into a happier frame of mind by convincing ourselves about how we feel. By manipulating ourselves into a smiling expression, we feel better; when we scowl, the whole world seems to scowl back. So put on a happy face. Talk as if you feel positive self-esteem, are optimistic, and are outgoing. Going through the motions can trigger the emotions.

I swear on this theory. It is my coping mechanism and never seems to let me down. I have gone through some trials and tribulations in my life and often should be more stressed out given my hectic schedule and circumstances. However, I stick a smile on my face and push through it and somehow my brain tells me isn’t so bad after all.

Now I am not saying that happy expressions take away all sadness, but life sure is a heck of a lot more fun with a smile on your face. So why not wipe off that scowl and pretend you are a child with no worries again? You and everyone around you are sure to appreciate it.