“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

-Jane Goodall

When you intentionally go out of your way to make someone’s day, chances are it will make your day, too! There is gratification and joy found in bringing positivity to someone else’s life. In a world where good often seems hard to find, let’s practice being evidence of kindness to both friends and strangers.

1. Give a genuine, heartfelt compliment. There’s no better way to catch someone off-guard (in a positive way!) than by giving affirmation and encouragement through a compliment.

2. Remind someone of their impact. Has someone previously given you a word of encouragement or positively impacted your life in some way? Remind them of how they made your day.

3. Hold the door open for a stranger. It’s such a small gesture, but a great way to show care towards someone else. With today’s “go go go” and self-righteous mentality, it is rare to come across door-holders: people who put others before themselves…literally!

4. Listen as someone shares their story, fear, worry, or joy, and be willing to only listen. Listening shows respect, honor, and care. Show someone their value and worth by choosing to listen and waiting your turn to speak.

5. Write a note to someone who needs it. By simply giving someone a short but thoughtful note, it shows that you took time in your day to think of them and write to them. Written words are an encouragement that can be kept and re-read for years to come.

6. Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. This is such a great way to show someone that you have not only been thinking of them, but took the initiative and time to call them. There is so much care and kindness found in extending a heartfelt conversation.

7.  Catch someone doing something right…and tell them! More often than not, our good, everyday actions go unnoticed. Find someone doing the right thing at your workplace or school, or even just a stranger you pass in the grocery store. It’s nice to be reminded that others see our good deeds and appreciate them.