Recently, I've been thinking through the fact that it's so easy to break someone's day with snarky comments, a mean look or to even leave someone's day average, by simply not doing anything special. However, it seemed to slip my mind how easy it is to make someone's day.
Make time to actually talk to someone you care about.
If there was an award for "worst long distance communicator", I would win by miles. The distance doesn't even have to be that long, as long as you're out of my general vicinity, I probably have trouble connecting with you on some points. On the bright side, once we do find the time to have a full conversation, we have lots to talk about! However, this is something which could easily be combated. You never know how much a simple hello text or a call to just see how someone is doing means to the person on the other end. I received a text the other day which simply said "Thinking about you!" and it left me with a smile on my face. Sometimes, people need to be reminded they are seen and loved- reach out to someone today.
Wish someone a great day.
Cutest story ever: I was with a group of friends just casually studying in a Starbucks about 10 minutes from our school. I was reading and out of my peripheral, noticed an older gentleman coming my direction. Because I was near the trash bin by the door, I just assumed he was throwing his cup away. Then, the sweetest thing ever, he comes over to me says in the most joyful tone, "I hope you're having a great day, young lady!". I told him I was and he left happily and all my friends just looked up curiously as to what he had to say. His positivity and joy in the simplest idea of just wishing someone a great day made me feel the same. Kind words mean more than you know, plus miles and miles more.
When you think of a compliment, say it.
This trend seems to be running out of style and I have a strong desire to bring it back. Even if you don't know someone in passing, if you like their outfit- tell them! If you think their hair looks great- tell them! Compliments make people feel good and can easily make anyone's day. It doesn't cost a thing to say something nice and it empowers others to pass on the positivity.
Engage in the small talk.
Okay, I understand small talk is not generally the most exciting thing. I've gotten pretty okay at it- just ask their name, where they're from, (if they're in school) what they're studying, how their day is going, etc. I've got a list at this point. Small talk can be SO intimidating and can awkward, but the way people can react to the amount of positivity in just one conversation is worth the moment of discomfort for yourself. Making people feel appreciated and important is one of the greatest ways to put a smile on their face.
In short, kill people with kindness. If it is in your power, do not let somebody walk away feeling like they just had a date with Negative Nancy.
"In the end, we will only regret the chances we didn't take." Don't forget to take the chance in making someone's day.
