Anyone find that their smile is forced after a short while whilst in company?

[AprilR]

I usually feign smiles too, and even fake laughing. If i did not i would be a lot less approachable and it would not be good for me

 

[tree]

No.

Being around somebody doesn't automatically make me smile
in the first place, so there's not an issue of the expression
lingering to the point of being forced.

I'm not saying I can't or don't look happy.

Just that merely being around another person doesn't
necessarily bring an expression to my face.

 

[brandybild]

Yes, learning how and when to smile is a trait we all (here in this forum) likely need to master. My smiles don't come much naturally, most are after I actually think about doing so. In the beginning, my wife was somewhat put off by my almost always "serious" face, but she has come to understand that I am not angry or bored (maybe, but she does not assume that automatically) and her acceptance has helped. In many social settings, I just do the best I can and it seems to work out ok. But as mentioned by several other comment-writers, it is hard work and after a while I find I need a break and find a way to disappear by myself to recharge. Getting mentally prepped for a social gathering is a must for me. I admire/envy my wife who is a welcome addition to any party, gathering, or group, as she always knows what to say and when. It's strange, her English is not nearly as good as mine, but her "acceptance rate" is far, far above mine. Since I can trust her to be honest and genuine when dealing with friends, customer, etc I often watch (and learn) and copy her reactions. Maybe that's cheating, but it seems to play out well, overall. I don't expect myself to be perfect in this way, and honestly, I have a lot to offer as a friend, so if someone does not understand/accept (or at least act ok with my body language/facial expressions), I figure the loss is theirs, not mine. Luckily for me, my wife agrees 100% with that viewpoint.