Like paddleboats and appetizer platters, happiness is meant to be shared. Luckily, it doesn’t take a grand gesture or an all-expenses-paid trip to the Bahamas to spread some joy (though it probably wouldn’t hurt). There are hundreds of little things you can do to brighten someone’s day, just by taking a few minutes to let them know you care. So if you’re looking to make your world a better place, one person at a time, here are a few tips to help get you started.
Go Ahead, Make Their Day: How To Brighten Someone Else's Life
Smile
We’re not suggesting walking around grinning at people all day; that’s more likely to make someone suspicious than lift their spirits. But whether you’re interacting with a co-worker or cashier, a simple smile can go a long way towards making a person feel appreciated. Turns out, they’re also contagious, and capable of positively affecting our moods. Give a smile, and chances are you’ll get one in return.
Focus on them
By making an effort to put down the cell phone or remote and truly listen to someone, you can make that person’s day that much better. Everyone wants to feel like their opinions are valued, so engage and ask follow-up questions, or just let them vent. Not only will it make the other person feel good, you might just find that they have something interesting to say.
Pick up the tab
Everyone knows that money can’t buy happiness. It can, however, buy a coffee or lunch, which can in turn make someone pretty darn happy. So offer to get the cheque when you’re out with a friend or co-worker. It’s a small, unexpected gesture, and can make someone’s day without putting much of a dent in your wallet.
Pick up the phone
It’s easy to think that messaging someone on Twitter qualifies as “staying in touch.” But remember actually speaking to people in more than 140 characters at a time? Try calling an old friend to catch up; even if it’s just to say hi, it can mean a lot. (This tip has been sponsored by moms everywhere.)
Share a picture
Next time you’re feeling nostalgic and thumbing through old photos, take a few extra seconds to bring a smile to someone else’s face too. Sending pictures to a friend won’t just stir up fond memories, it’ll also make it more likely you two get together to make new ones.
Leave a note
You may have thought the notes your parents used to sneak into your lunchbox were cheesy, but the message got across: someone was thinking about you. A goofy sticky note stuck to a co-worker’s desk, or a sweet one left on the fridge at home, lets the people you care about know that you’re happy to take time out of your day to make theirs a little more fun.
Bring enough for the whole class
Whether you’re going to work or a friend’s house, apply another childhood lesson and bring snacks for everyone, instead of just yourself. A dozen doughnuts or a bag of chips won’t set you back much, but it’s a nice gesture, and one that might inspire others to pay it forward.
Take care of something (without having to be asked)
You know that one chore no one wants to do? Whether it’s refilling the office coffee pot or doing the dishes, make the extra effort to get it done before someone has to ask. Not only will they be thrilled that it’s done, they’ll be even happier that they didn’t have to bug anyone about it first.