Attitudes

Hello everyone!

Have you ever noticed that when you're in a group, if someone tells a joke and one person starts genuinely laughing, the others start laughing too, even if the joke's not funny? The same happens with tension and sadness. That's because, as a species, we're hardwired to relate to the feelings and emotions that other people give off. This helps us adapt and fit into our environment.

Okay, it works like this: If I smile at you, you'll feel inclined to reciprocate and smile back. In much the same way, if I look at you dismissively and then avert my eyes, you'll probably respond in kind, If I sigh, you feel it. If you laugh, I feel it.

Attitudes are contagious. they are, in fact, big bundles of feelings projected through body language, tone of voice and the words you choose. When you're angry, you look angry, you sound angry, you use angry words, and it makes other people feel uncomfortable. Conversely, when you're playful, you look playful, you sound playful, you use playful words, and it makes other people feel playful. Ditto for enthusiastic, or sexy, or any other mood.

This is the bad news and the good news all rolled into one. The bad part is that someone's miserable attitude can make anyone around them feel equally miserable. But, by the same token, a joyful attitude can make other feel joyful. You can make the most of this infectiousness, adjusting your attitude to drive other's behavior. Be joyful and your upbeat mood will rub off on others.

Have a nice day!