Something so simple. Yet, so true. Yes, it takes time. Yes, an introvert would need to leave the safety of their comfort zone. Making a human connection. I care. You matter. Need to work up to top of the ladder. See full and worthy post from The Chief Happiness Officer:
“Please do not underestimate the effect of something as simple as saying good morning at work. Studies show that when you have a good start to your work day, you’ll typically have a good day. Here’s our easiest and best tip for kicking your work day off with happiness: The Level 5 Good Morning. We call it that because there are several approaches to saying good morning at work:
- Level 0: You ignore people completely
- Level 1: A somewhat unintelligible grunt
- Level 2: Saying good morning without looking at people
- Level 3: Make eye contact as you say good morning
- Level 4: Also say something more than just good morning, e.g. “How are you?” or something more personal.
- Level 5: Also touch the other person – e.g. a handshake or a pat on the shoulder.
At what level are the typical good mornings in your workplace? And what would happen if you took it to level 5?”
Even a dog can learn to do it for Pete’s sake…


You are definitely a Level-5 blogger, David. Keep em coming.
🙂 Thank you John. Yes, all in the comfort of the virtual world we live in.
I was always a level 5 when I was working – made such a difference to the grunters!
JM, you are advanced. The rest of us grunters have a lot of work to do to catch up.
No, not at all – I’ve just always been a grinner, can’t seem to help it. I bet you are not a grunter at all David!
Laughing. Take the 5th.
Excellent, level 5 post! 🙂 Great advise.
Preaching to myself…:)
haha. No! I definetly found this useful (level 3-4 is not good enough). I’ll try to take it to level 5. It’s so important little detail. I’ve always wondered why some people jump from level 0 to 5, as soon as they become managers. 😛 When they do that, the genuine connection loses its value.
Laughing. Yes, the good ol’ jump from Level 0 to 5. So authentic and effective. 🙂
Very interesting, David. I’ve always been a Level 5 greeter, but then again, I’m a big hugger too, so I guess it kind of follows… 😉 I’m just a “patter,” always have been, always will be. I do know that I have always been struck by people who greet this way-it never fails to stick with me when it happens….:-)
Of course you are. And I’d bet $20 that your side-kick (Mimi) is a Level 6 Greeter. I’m surrounded by ESTPs! http://www.personalitypage.com/ESTP.html
So funny, David–I was thinking as I typed “I bet Mimi and I greet people in a very similar way!” And yes, pretty much an ESTP and a Leo to boot. Honey hush…..
P.S. amazingly cool photo of the diver and the whale!
Isn’t it though. LOVED IT.
I was taught when you enter a room you always speak to the people there. Now touching people in this day and age maybe a little tricky. I like to give a hug to the people I know well. Love the photos.
BE ENCOURAGED! BE BLESSED!
Thanks Francine. Yes, Francine. Today, touching is at or over the line in corporate
Then there is level six, but that often results in a slap in the face and termination….Let’s hear it for those that stop and live at “five”. If you are happy and you know it, clap your hands.
Now that’s FUNNY. Very good! An Undertaker with a roaring sense of humor. Love it.
Strive for five. My new mantra. I imagine each day will become easier and easier to achieve it too. (I personally think eye contact is more important than the touch.)
Strive for five. Catchy! And I agree on the eye contact.
Strive for five – I like that!
I think we hover around 3 and 4 in my office…
That dog is soooooo sweet !!
Yes, we hover around 3. And yes, love the “strive for five” mantra. Thank you
I’m a definite level 4 person, unless I know someone well. Then Level 5 is allowed out.
:). I had you pegged for a straight 5. Yet 4 rolling to 5 is admirable. 🙂
Nice job, Dave. Applies at home, too. I’m certain that a Level 5 start for kids supports learning and more positive interactions at school throughout the day.
Hi Deborah. Good to hear from you. Yes, you are so right. Thanks for sharing.
Wow, love that first pic! Good morning to you, David. Have a really great day. 🙂
Hi Sylvia. Thank you. You too.
I am at level 4 🙂 no touching , no handshakes
Hmmmm. I had the Master Poet at a 5. 4 is good!
thank you 🙂
Oh…that I miss at my old workplace, those level 5 good mornings. Right now, the most we get is Level 3. At least I’m getting a Level 5 here! 🙂
Laughing…good!
I had a boss who never said good morning. She came in a barked an order at me. I loved the job, but hated her.
Tough environment. At least that environment is (way) behind you…thanks for sharing.
It’s been years since I’ve been out there in the workplace – it’s a long way from my nice cozy self-employment. I almost feel I can’t comment but – if I was, I’m sure I wouldn’t get past level 4. The touching is great at home and among friends. I’d be wary of it at work. Giving or receiving.
I’ve already tagged you as a 3. And yes on the touching…
Yes, yes, yes…Lori is right – as are you..I’m a level 6 greeter – and was that way at work too. Everyone and anyone. And I’ve met some of the coolest people in the most unlikely places. And of course I fell in love with this picture too, even though I’m really afraid of the depths of the ocean. But to get that close to a whale? I’d love that. I’m not even going to begin to discuss the affection I feel for the husky – what a guy.
There is no doubt you are a 6. Maybe a 10. (Is 10 “Gushing”?)
Sounds volcanic…I don’t think I scare anyone, but I am pretty happy when I meet people. But put me in a crowd or at a party and I’m a total wallflower. Truth.
Our office has level 4 and level 5 greeters and our days are generally good even when they are not those that work there still come out on the better side at the end of the day.
4 and 5 greeters…wow, you set the tone Tina.
I loved it so much, you are amazing dear David, I loved level 5 🙂
You are so a 5 Nia. Probably a 7. 🙂
I am not a touchy feely kind of person so I am comfortably at level 4. lol
I’m aspiring to reach your level. 🙂
Giving a whale a HIGH 5 is a dream.
I’m with you. It’s an amazing shot.
In today’s climate I never touch another person. Level 5 is a no go area.
Very delicate area. Handshake it safe path…