People often mistakenly believe that a grand gesture or significant amount of money is needed to make someone’s day or make others happy. These things can certainly be positive and provide joy, however, I believe in quality over quantity. In other words, it’s the little things that usually make a big difference. Here are some small things you can do to make a big impact!
Say “thank you,” “you’re welcome,” “I’m sorry,” “I love you.”
No matter how small the gesture you should always say thank you. Many people feel unappreciated or taken advantage of when they’re ignored or taken for granted. Saying thank you as often as possible builds respect in a relationship and is just simply polite.
You’re welcome is a similar concept. If someone thanks you respond otherwise it seems like you really didn’t want to help anyway!
Saying I’m sorry can be hard to do in some situations…but it is always worth it. Arguing or hurting someone is often unintentional and is the result of a miscommunication. That being said, if someone is brave enough to expresses to you they have been hurt you should be sorry even if you don’t think the action should have hurt them. Being sorry is also used as a sign of compassion and empathy. People often need support if they have lost someone or are going through a hard time, or are just having a bad day. Your concern for their wellbeing will make them feel a little better automatically!
I love you is something you can never say too much. Life is too short to keep negativity in your life. If you love someone tell him or her. And tell them every single day as often as you can!
Give genuine compliments.
People often hear “you look good!”, “nice shirt”, or “have you been working out?”. But how often do people mean these things? These compliments are so generic they barely pierce the surface. Be observant, if someone gets a haircut you will notice and be able to comment on it. People love hearing positive feedback to pick them up a little but if it is not heartfelt it has very little lasting impact. If you stop for a second and tell someone how much you love their sense of humor or their big heart they will remember it.
Listen.
This may sound way too simple but it is true! If someone is talking to you give him or her your undivided attention. Do not look at your phone, gaze around the room, or zone out. People notice these things and feel less important. This can be very negative especially if they have to repeat themselves, or if you have no or a very bland response. Listen and give a heartfelt response so that they feel you are truly interested and care about what they have to say.
Remember.
Remembering birthdays, anniversaries, favorite colors, and even names can be a challenge. However, people are always flattered when you remember something about them. This links to the small gesture of listening, if you are an attentive listener you will hopefully remember small details that can make people feel very special. If you remember certain things, like someone’s favorite meal and cook it for them that gesture means much more than buying them something material.
Give lots of x’s and o’s.
Sometimes even words aren’t enough to show you care. Sometimes you just have to hold the ones you love close and give them a kiss or hug. Direct affection can often show your feelings and compassion more than any words can.
You remember that pink roses are your mom’s favorite? Pick some up if you know she’s been having a rough week at work. Your partner has a tummy ache? Grab the ginger ale and a heating pad and snuggle with them until the pain goes away. Worried you don’t see your grandparents enough as they continue to age? Tell them you love them and hug them every time you see them…the small things may seem small but in the grand scheme of things they often matter the most. You don’t need to go out of your way to make a difference in someone’s life, you just have to step up and do it (no matter how small the gesture it can go a long way)!
