A smile costs nothing but creates much. It’s one of those disarmingly simple truths that, when you actually apply it, can completely change the game in business and in life.
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Meaning
At its core, this is about the ultimate high-ROI investment. You’re putting in zero capital but the returns—in rapport, goodwill, and connection—can be immense.
Explanation
Look, I’ve tested this in boardrooms and in brainstorming sessions for years. It’s not just about showing teeth. It’s a fundamental non-verbal signal that says “I’m approachable, I’m open, and you are safe here.” That single gesture can de-escalate tension, it can make a nervous new hire feel at ease, and it can be the reason a tough negotiation starts on a cooperative foot instead of an adversarial one. It’s a tool, a seriously underutilized one.
Quote Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Category | Life (320) |
| Topics | behavior (66), connection (265), kindness (37), positivity (15) |
| Literary Style | memorable (234), minimalist (442) |
| Emotion / Mood | cheerful (7), hopeful (357) |
| Overall Quote Score | 76 (131) |
Origin & Factcheck
This one is correctly attributed to Dale Carnegie’s legendary book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, first published in 1936 in the United States. You’ll sometimes see it floating around as an anonymous proverb, but Carnegie really codified it as a principle of human relations. He didn’t necessarily invent the idea, but he packaged it for the modern world.
Attribution Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Author | Dale Carnegie (408) |
| Source Type | Book (4032) |
| Source/Book Name | How to Win Friends and Influence People (99) |
| Origin Timeperiod | Modern (530) |
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Authenticity | Verified (4032) |
Author Bio
Dale Carnegie(1888), an American writer received worldwide recognition for his influential books on relationship, leadership, and public speaking. His books and courses focus on human relations, and self confidence as the foundation for success. Among his timeless classics, the Dale Carnegie book list includes How to Win Friends and Influence People is the most influential which inspires millions even today for professional growth.
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Where is this quotation located?
| Quotation | A smile costs nothing but creates much |
| Book Details | Publication Year/Date: 1936 original, Revised Edition 1981, ISBN/Unique Identifier: 9780671723651, Last edition. Number of pages: Revised Edition 1981, approx 291 pages |
| Where is it? | Part Two: Six Ways to Make People Like You, Chapter 5 |