People often focus on the larger aspects of life, but it's the little things that truly make someone's day. A smile, some extra attention, or even just a little gratitude can immensely impact our lives. These top 5 tips will help you to greatly improve someone's day!
1. Tell Them You Care
It's all too easy to take the people in our lives for granted. Sure, we meet them or greet them, but we may not ever say how we truly feel. To brighten someone's day, simply tell them that you appreciate them, are glad they are themselves, and that you value their company. It may take them by surprise, and they may act a bit shocked to hear it, but they will remember it forever. At the very least, it will make their day and enhance your relationship.
If you haven't seen the person for a while, then send an email or pick up the phone and tell them you value your relationship together. Start off by asking how their day is, how their life is, and then end the conversation with a little gratitude. It will feel strange at first, but once you make the first step by showing appreciation, it gets easier to do with everyone in your life. Just don't do it during every conversation or it will lose its meaning.
2. Surprise With a Gift
- A cup of coffee
- A keychain ring
- Their favorite dessert
3. Plan a Mini Vacation
Vacations don't have to be week-long international journeys. Instead, simply invite someone for a small trip to the beach, a park, or to a new excursion in town. Doing something new like this is a great way to bond while also relaxing away from the worries of home. You don't have to travel far, but make sure to choose a place or activity that's different enough from home so that you feel extra rested when you return. You can even plan a one night's stay in a hotel away from home. Drive a few hours to a cool location and spend the night without worries. Weekend getaways like this are perfect for recharging after a busy week. To avoid complications, ask if they are available and give the general outline, but leave some things as surprises so that the news and trip makes their day extra amazing.
4. Write a Thank You Card
If someone has done something nice for you, then take the time to write a card thanking them for whatever it was. Whether they helped you at work, gave you a nice present, or simply listened to you when you were feeling down, a small thank you card goes a long way. Depending on the person, you can also include some chocolate or something nice along with it to enhance the effect.
5. Simply Listen
Listening is difficult, and it can be an art form to truly listen and not just wait to speak. Sometimes people just want to rant, complain, or be heard. In these cases, don't offer advice or try to relate by providing your own story. Learn the difference between a conversation and those times when someone wants you just to listen. By listening and allowing them to speak, you will help that person to feel immensely better throughout the day!