Be aware of expression on your `resting face'
Most of us aren't aware of what our natural facial expression is saying about us — without us saying a word! To anyone who isn't sure: ask someone you trust to tell you the truth about your natural facial expressions.
Today, social media has a name, and an acronym, for this called BRF, “Bitchy Resting Face.” (It's clearly geared toward women.)
That said, women and men need to be aware of their natural facial expressions, although men seem to be more adept at holding their “game face,” which, interestingly, has nothing to do with being “bitchy.”
Our “natural facial expression” or the “resting face” conveys powerful information and sends signals ranging from disinterest, devilishness or depression to vicious, vivacious — even vacant. Emoticon options, already programmed on our i-devices, readily list 40 random “faces” to attach to texts and emails to reflect and share our mood, reinforcing how we “feel” literally, as we post.
People who have experienced unrelenting life adversity acquire a sad face (mouth and eyes turned downward); their difficult lives evident. We all experience life challenges. However, remember, people are naturally drawn to positive looking people and positive energy. Therefore, it behooves us to put on our “game face” in public, which only happens with practice in private. People who look “happy” are perceived as happy and are generally deemed more likeable and trustworthy. Smiling is a silent signal of affability and acceptance which also varies culturally in the world, in the U.S. and even here in dear old (conservative) Boston!
Cultural aspects aside, it is important to positively project; fake smiles are transparent.
• It takes more facial muscles to frown than it does to smile — smile with your eyes, too!
• Frown lines are unattractive; happy smile lines are beautiful; both speak to the inside person.
• Plastic surgeons today are being asked to surgically correct natural frowns which wouldn't even be necessary if, like posture, we were more aware and would consciously practice every day.
Remember, gravity is already at work naturally pulling down your mouth, facial muscles and eye lids, all controlled by muscles. Like any muscle, they need to be exercised. Practice exercising your eye muscles to lift and project a more alert and alluring natural facial expression.
BRF's aside, the fact is, people judge us and make business decisions based on facial cues and body language. Use your natural facial expression to send the message you are a positive, disciplined, approachable person and advance business relationships.