Greatness is something that we don’t think is all around us all that much anymore. We’re so used to hearing the negative things life throws at us, that we don't even stop to consider the acts of greatness that surround us on a daily basis. We become blind to it in a way because we’re programmed to be wary of the next bad thing to happen. But, greatness is something that is still very present, in the small things, and in big ways. And it’s definitely something we shouldn't be overlooking. I’ve noticed some acts of greatness myself recently that have made me stop and rethink my mindset of the world. After all, it's tiring to constantly be in a bad mood.

1. Your coworkers are always there for you

I work in a dining hall where I go to college. And let me just say, it might not look as great on a resume, but I’m so glad I took this job. The people I work with have taught me so many life lessons—from learning what it means to actually be a person this world instead of relying on everyone else, to advice for exams and reminders to get sleep and relax and have fun. While it’s food service, I enjoy going to work, because I know I’ll learn a lesson college classes can’t teach me.

2. Your true friends let you know you have someone to go to

We all know the hardest part of the semester is midterms. It’s slightly worse than finals because these exams set the tone for your grades for the semester. Plus, that’s when you get hit with personal stressors the most, it seems. This semester, I had a midterm that was worth a huge chunk of my grade and that I wasn't confident in and a lot of personal stress. But all my true friends rose up and supported me, letting me know that it wasn't the end of the world.

3. People still hold the doors for you

While, yeah, there are the people who don't care, most people, if they see you behind them, going into the same building they’re going into, will hold the doors for you instead of letting them slam in your face. And let me just say, when you’re having a bad day and you get behind that one person that doesn’t hold the door, it frustrates you. So the fact that most people will, that one small act makes my day a whole lot better.

4. Dogs exist and I have one at home who loves me

Let me just say, dogs count as examples of greatness. As soon as I see a dog, I smile really big and get really happy. And when I get to see my dog at home, I get so happy my heart can’t handle it. Dogs bring me so much joy and peace—especially my dog at home.

5. Selfless acts come when you least expect them

Too many selfless acts happen on a daily basis that I can’t even recount the highlight ones. But what I can say is, that, for as selfish as the world is chalked up to be these days, I’ve seen some mind-blowing acts that are so selfless I couldn’t help but watch. And when I see them, it makes my heart happy. The world’s not as bad as people actually make it out to be.

I encourage you, keep your eyes and your mind open. Acts of greatness are all around us. All we have to do is focus on positivity, and the rest will come as it happens.