Doing nice things for people makes you feel better and lifts your mood. But not everyone can give someone a brand new car like Oprah! Here’s a list of small gestures you can do to improve someone’s day for free:
1. Smile
It’s simple and doesn’t cost a thing! I’ve started doing this whenever I talk to someone. Sometimes it feels forced but I always do it. When ordering at the deli or walking into a building with a doorman – I smile at the person helping me. Instantly it brightens their face too.
2. Take a Flyer
If you’re a New Yorker like me – you know how annoying people can be on the street handing out coupons and flyers. I’ve embraced this irritating habit. Next time someone shoves a flyer in your face – take it. No one likes to be rejected – that person is just doing her job and you’ll make it a little easier by simply being easy going. You can throw it out on the next corner or who knows, maybe you’ll even need the information.
3. Send a Note
People don’t send cards enough these days. I’m a total stationary freak – so I appreciate all kinds of paper. Send someone a personalized,
handwritten note to just say hi. It will lift that person’s spirits when they receive a happy note and not another bill in the mail! Or write a sweet message on a Post-it note and stick it to a mirror or computer monitor.
4. Listen
Sometimes people just want to be heard. I’ve learned that this will help you be an extraordinary friend. You don’t always have to have a solution – sometimes the best remedy is just hearing someone out and letting him vent.
5. Say Thank You
When someone does something nice for you – in a store or restaurant or on the street – say thank you! And really mean it. Give credit where credit is due. People like positive reinforcement for a job well done.
6. Share
Lend someone your favorite book, give away your favorite cookie recipe, e-mail a cute picture of a dog, tell a funny story or a joke. Spreading joy can be really simple – start with stuff that you like. Isn’t that how “Oprah’s Favorite Things” was born after all?
Paula Rizzo is the founder of ListProducer.com. She’s also an Emmy Award winning television producer and attributes much of her success to her compulsive list making. She makes a list about anything and started ListProducer.com to help others become more organized, focused and efficient, while being less stressed.
