They say it's the small things in life that matter the most and I'd have to agree. It's the small things that brighten my day like a compliment or someone holding a door open for me. Not only does being on the receiving end of this fill me with great joy but being on the giving end makes me even happier. I'm the type of person who loves trying to find that perfect gift for someone just to see the huge smile on their face, being able to put a smile on someone's face is an incredible feeling. One smile or compliment can turn someone's whole day around and I'm sure we all know from experience that this holds true. I am trying to become a more selfless person. I may not be rich, but I can, at least, spare some change. I challenge you to help spread the cheer!
1. Let's start simple. Smile at a friend, smile at a stranger!
I think we all know what it's like when everyone we pass in the mall or on the street is in a hurry and seems to have a stern look on their face. A simple smile toward someone can make them smile too, I swear it's contagious! You never know what someone is going through and smiling at them could brighten up their day.
2. Compliment someone
As much as people remember the negative comments that have been said, people remember the positive ones as well. It seems like people focus on the bad ones, but I promise that the good ones make a difference. The person will remember it all day long and it will give them a little confidence boost, which can go a long way. We can get down on ourselves from time to time and we need reminders of our self-worth. Try to find something to compliment that you find true about the person, it should come from the heart! Everyone has something special about them. You can even leave a positive comment on someone's picture or status. Sometimes I leave sticky notes with compliments on them or just tell people that I think they are beautiful.
3. Hold the door open for the people behind you
Sometimes we are in such a hurry that we don't take the time to hold the door open for anyone. Take the couple extra seconds to hold the door open for people, even if they are still
4. Say "Thank you"
Especially to those who hold the door open for you! It actually really aggravates me when people can't manage to say a simple thank you for that. It feels good to be appreciated, even for the little things. Call, text or even write a letter to family, friends, or someone else who has done something for you. It could be something as simple as, "Thank you for being such an amazing friend and for always supporting me." Plus, who doesn't love getting letters in the mail?
5. Take the time to listen to someone
It can be extremely frustrating when someone is on their phone while you are trying to talk to them. I'm sure we have all had this done to us and have done it to someone else. In this generation, it seems like we are always on our phones. When someone opens up to you, do them a favor and put down your phone. Give them your full attention and actively listen. Ask them questions to know more about the situation or just simply listen. It's nice to know that someone truly cares.
6. Let someone else have the good parking spot
I love getting good parking spots, it's almost like a sport to me. But at times, it's nice to leave the spot for someone else who may be in a hurry. Plus, the longer walk will let you get a little extra cardio in.
7. Leave change near a wishing well
I had this idea when I was at the mall sitting down to eat. Kids are always bugging their parents for a penny to throw in the wishing well
8. Leave change in a toy or candy machine
You will make the child who finds it extremely happy. I know that I would be ecstatic if I
9. Donate your change to a donation bucket
Most of us are probably pretty tight on money and are trying to save it, but it doesn't hurt to dump some change or even put in a couple dollars toward a good cause. There are also websites that you can click on a cause you want to support and sponsors will donate money for you for free. Check out clicktogive.com if you're interested!
10. Pay for someone's meal behind you
Try paying for someone's meal behind you in line or in a drive-thru. This can lead to a chain reaction of people paying for the people behind them since they were going to pay for their own anyway.
11. Leave quarters on top of washers and dryers in a laundromat
Laundry can get expensive for those who do not own washers and dryers. Leave a note with the quarters so people know it's for their use. You can also write on the note 'Pay it forward' or something positive. Someone will really appreciate this kind gesture.
12. Help the homeless
Depending on the needs of the person or family depends on how you help. A good idea is to keep a bag in your car filled with some goodies like snacks, water, hand sanitizer, socks, hand wipes, feminine products etc. and when you see someone in need you give it to them. Some churches also have soup kitchens where you may be able to help prepare food or serve it to families in need.
13. Donate clothes
Do you really need all of those clothes in your closet? Probably not. Going through your clothes can be fun and it's probably safe to say that you can get rid of anything you haven't worn in a year. I have a hard time doing this because I'm so indecisive and get attached to my clothes, but I managed to get rid of a few huge garbage bags of clothes the last time I did this. Another good thought to have in mind when going through them is, "would I buy this now?" If you wouldn't buy something like that, get rid of it, someone else would surely get a better use out of it.
14. Let someone go ahead of you in line
People love this, especially if they only have a few items and you have a full cartful of them. They will be thankful and happy! Not only can you do this in a grocery store, but you can do this when you're driving. Try to be a courteous driver and let others into your lane if need be. Sometimes we get frustrated driving and don't let anyone into our lane...road rage is never the answer.
15. Do various work for free
We are always looking for ways to make money, but the reward of working for free is pretty great too. Someone will be so appreciative for your time and effort that they will probably try to offer something in return, but the point is just to help someone out and spread the joy. This could be things like shoveling someone's driveway, mowing a lawn, helping someone build something, doing chores around the house etc. It doesn't have to be anything huge, sometimes just washing the dishes can be a huge help. You can volunteer at different places like animal shelters, food pantries, Habitat for Humanity, a library, Red Cross, or a retirement home.
Have you ever tried any of these or have any more great ideas?
The goal here is to make people happy one act at a time and hopefully it will continue in a chain reaction. Every small action can make a big difference and have an impact someway in this world. What you say and how you act does matter and affects those around you and
