Everyone has days where they feel sad or blue. It’s only natural to have off days, but there are things you can do to help. Check out these simple ways you can brighten someone’s day to help a friend, family member, coworker, or stranger in need. Whether it’s at home, in the park, or at the workplace, you never know who may need it.
Give Compliments
One of the best ways to turn someone’s day from bad to good is through unexpected compliments. Remember the last time someone complimented you? It feels good to feel appreciated. A simple accolade is more than enough to help someone feeling blue. It can be as simple as “you look very nice today” to something specific, like “your smile makes me smile.” Whatever you decide, your friend or loved one will feel special and acknowledged through this simple word exchange.
Send a Gift
You can also send them a gift. There’s a psychology behind gift-giving and why it makes people feel special. Fundamentally, the act of giving gifts holds intrinsic value to both the giver and receiver. Gift-giving raises the internal social reward mechanism that increases bonding and friendship. Gift-giving is also a symbolic interaction between shared interests, emotions, and social awareness. Whether it’s something as extravagant as a gift basket or as simple as a nice card, any gift will improve someone’s self-worth.
Talk to Them
Don’t forget that another simple way you can brighten someone’s day is to talk to them. You never know what someone’s going through. The last thing you want is for someone to feel sad or depressed because they’re bottling up repressed feelings. Talking to them allows them to vent their frustrations or sadness to a friendly face. Be encouraging.
However, only offer advice if they request it. Sometimes it’s better to sit back and listen than to offer advice. Many times, people just need an open ear to hear them. While it’s easier to listen to a friend, family member or loved one, consider talking to a coworker or stranger too. You never know who may need a nice talk to help them through their day.