My third book will start where Power of Smile ended — and this time, it will also be available to English-speaking readers. This summer, I will begin writing the book during a retreat in Sweden: In Malmö, at one of the world’s largest yoga festivals, and in Stockholm. The context has expanded from workplaces to modern life. But the starting point is still the same:
Small things matter
- How you think.
- How you speak.
- How you act.
- How you meet other people in everyday life.
These things shape your day — and perhaps your tomorrow. And when the world feels noisy, rushed and unsettled, maybe one of the best things we can do is return to what we can actually influence in daily life.
Seven guidelines from the book where it began
These seven guidelines come from Power of Smile. They are simple. Maybe almost too simple. But perhaps that is exactly why they matter — yesterday, today and tomorrow. Simple does not mean superficial. Behind them lies a solid professional foundation.
We talk – and talk, and talk – about well-being, stress and modern life. We sometimes seem to make things more complicated than they need to be. Maybe simplicity is the way forward.
1. You become what you speak
The words we use shape how we feel – and how we work together. When we mostly speak about problems, pressure, and what is wrong, it easily affects the atmosphere around us – and within ourselves. Speak with kindness, appreciation, and respect. Say thank you. Smile. Offer support when someone is having a difficult day.
2. Do not feed negative thoughts
Protect what you let into your mind. Negative thoughts come naturally. Our minds often remember criticism more easily than praise, and we are bombarded with information 24/7. In a working day filled with demands, pressure and constant input, it can be easy to focus only on problems and what is difficult. This is not about ignoring problems. It is about noticing what works, what helps, and what you can influence today.
3. Look people in the eye
Small everyday conversations matter more than we often realise. A short talk with a colleague can prevent misunderstandings and reduce tension. Many conflicts grow when we communicate only through messages or emails. Personal contact builds trust and strengthens teamwork. Notice how even a simple smile can change the atmosphere.
4. Pause for two minutes
Many people rush from task to task without real breaks. Even a short pause can help your mind reset and your body relax. Take two minutes to breathe, stretch, or simply look away from the screen. Small pauses during the day can change both focus and mood. You can always find two minutes. If nothing else, take a bathroom break.
5. Take care of your body and heart
Your well-being is not separate from your work. It is part of it. Notice when you are tired, stressed, or overwhelmed. Rest when possible, move your body, and breathe deeply. Hold a short meeting with yourself before the week begins. Make sure there is also room for what your heart truly cares about. You can always move an hour or three in your calendar. When you take care of yourself, you also take better care of others.
6. Be mindful with screens
Digital tools are useful, but they can also drain our attention and energy. Too many messages can create stress and confusion. When possible, talk instead of typing. Remember that behind every screen and system there are real people. When technology gets difficult, ask for help. Everyone struggles with it sometimes. And now and then, the system may not be as clever as it thinks.
7. Stop before you react
We often react automatically when we feel pressured or stressed. Learn to notice what triggers strong reactions in you. When things feel intense or rushed, slow down before responding. If you feel hit by criticism in an email, do not answer right away. Wait. Even a short pause can prevent conflict and create better understanding. Not every message deserves your first reaction.
After its publication in the autumn of 2024, the book was featured in several Danish media, including Jyllands-Posten, Lederweb and Point of View International.