In a world where we have more bad news than good there’s still a lot we can do to make a difference. What will you do?

1. Smile

As simple as it is to contract your face muscles into a smile, this small effort has the power to light up a room, change someones day, and make you happier in the process.

2. Give

Your time, your money, blood, even your old clothes. The world needs more selfless people starting with you.

3. Put your phone down (but finish reading this first)

Technology is a great tool but also has a tendency to remove us from the important things. Put your phone down for a few hours and genuinely pay attention to people, you’ll be surprised what a huge difference it can make.

4. Say yes

Do favors, be selfless, get out there! Say yes!

5. Say no

Don’t do drugs, stay in school.

6. Say please 7. Say thank you

Mama raised you to do it and Mama knows best.

8. Treat everyone with respect

Whether a garbage man, barista, police officer, or grandma, they deserve respect.

9. Understand and value diversity

Race, religion, ethnicity, background, political views, sexual orientation, etc do not make a person worth any more or any less, let’s stop acting like they do.

10. Adopt a dog

Dogs are just really great and it’s sad when they don’t have people to love them.

11. Pick up trash

Seriously, why do people litter in the first place? Get it together.

12. Do a craft and give it to someone

Crafts are fun, people like gifts, it’s cheap but it has meaning.

13. Hang out with old people

There’s much to be learned from older generations and sometimes they appreciate our company too.

14. Serve our veterans

They have sacrificed so much for us, a few hours of our time is the least we can give to them.

15. Read to children

Pretty sure that’s a good thing that people do.

16. Share your talents

Whether you can sing, dance, yoyo, or find Cheetos in the shape of Abraham Lincoln, your talent is a gift to the world! Share it!!

17. Give the news something good to talk about

18. Write a letter

Snail mail is amazing, do it.

19. Advocate for something you care about

Do your research, write some letters, create a petition, meet with your local representatives.

20. Compliment someone on something more than skin deep

These kinds of compliments are rare but so empowering.

21. Thank someone who made an impact on your life

There are many unsung heroes who deserve thanking but are often forgotten. Maybe a teacher, doctor, coach, or friend of yours deserves a long overdo thank you.

22. Pray

Pray for the world. Pray for your family. Pray for your community. Pray for our leaders. Never underestimate the power of prayer.