Famous writer Charles Dickens once said, "Happiness is a gift and the trick is to not to expect it but to delight in it when it comes and to add to other people's store of it." In saying this, Dickens suggested that those who find happiness are lucky in doing so and should spread their happiness so that others may also receive such a gift. By spreading these feelings, one's personal store of happiness will never empty.
College is a trying time for many individuals. It can be stressful trying to find a balance between academics, having a social life, working part/full time, and taking on commitments such as being part of a sports team or volunteering through clubs, etc. The key to staying positive through the complex college experience is to create your own happiness, and to share it with those around you. Listed below are ten small and easy ways that you can contribute to a happier college experience for yourself and your entire campus.
1. Write a Note
Take a few minutes to write a heartfelt letter to a helpful professor, or take a spare moment to scribble out a few nice words on a sticky note and stick it on your roommate's computer screen when they're off doing laundry. Everyone cherishes a good old-fashioned handwritten message.
2. Help with Chores
If someone in the dorms is struggling to get through a busy week, offer to help them check a few things off of their to-do list. This could be as easy as washing their laundry or dishes while you are already washing yours.
3. Go for a Walk
If someone in your class seems stressed, approach them afterwards and offer to walk them to their next class or to their dorm building. They may want to walk and talk about whatever is bothering them.
4. Make Some Soup
When the 'plague' inevitably hits campus, if you are one of the few healthy students left out of your circle of friends, offer to make soup or tea for those who are sick. Being sick away from home is a real bummer but your friends will automatically feel a little better thanks to your efforts.
5. Say Thank You
Try to thank all on-campus staff, not just your favorite professors. Everyone deserves to feel appreciated and two words can make someone's entire day.
6. Tidy Up
Wipe off the blackboard after you are done taking notes on it during a study session. Push in chairs at the tables in the library if your friends leave without doing so. Recycle the crumpled-up papers that are scattered around the computer lab and pick up trash if you see it. Help contribute to a clean space for everyone.
7. Send a Message
If you haven't seen a friend in a few days due to a crazy schedule, shoot them a quick text. If a classmate has been missing a lot recently and you are concerned, send them a Facebook message and just ask how they are doing. Checking in with people, even through a short and simple message, lets them know that you care.
8. Offer your Talents
If you are one of the top students in a class, offer to study with those who are struggling. The same goes for student athletes or members of extracurriculars. If you are talented at what you do, consider sharing those talents with those who are interested but may need some guidance. By doing so you will foster the talent in others and increase their confidence.
9. Show Interest
If your roommate plays sports, attend some of their games and help them celebrate when they win. If your friend is obsessed with a certain band, listen to some of that band's music. Do not simply acknowledge the passions of those you care about - show a genuine interest!
10. Smile
The easiest way to brighten someone else's day is to smile or simply say hello. Acknowledge the presence of others and try to make them feel important on some level.
Follow these 10 simple tips and share with friends to watch campus morale increase greatly. Here's to hoping you enjoy a happier spring semester!
