Some days, it can be really hard to keep smiling and pretending that everything is fine when that just makes matters worse. We will all experience sadness, anxiety, and stress at different points in our lives, but it is how we handle these rough patches that build our character.
It could be that your test scripts were returned and you scored really low. Perhaps, someone made a thoughtless and cruel remark about you. Or things are not just going well in your personal life. Whatever the reason, do not let these moments of sadness and stress overstay their welcome.
Need to get your spirits up? Here are 4 ways to instantly brighten any day, including yours!
1. Show Kindness to Another Person
Did you know that one of the best ways to forget about our own misery is to think about others? Nothing puts a smile on someone’s face like a thoughtful gesture especially when it’s not expected! Give a little bit of sunshine to someone who may be having a worse day than you. Just the thought of how many people out there in the world who would benefit from your kind words and smile can give you a heightened sense of satisfaction all day.
2. Give Someone a Treat
Like what? What do you have and can share with another? Could you take the time to explain something to the boy or girl in class who doesn’t seem to get it? Wouldn’t it be a good idea to help that sick classmate of yours write her note? Call up, or message the classmate whom you observed is not in school today?
Knowing you helped someone have a great day will give you that boost you’ve been craving.
3. Give to the Needy
Keep it simple, keep it genuine. And who says it has to be a million naira, or even money. It is simply anything you can afford – nothing more!
Keep in mind though that some people are not comfortable with accepting hand outs, but you can be creative. You could notice something good about them, and say this is your token of appreciation for that. You will be amazed at how such simple acknowledgement can make someone who is constantly ignored and overlooked feel human again. Bringing that much light to someone’s day will give you a contagious and uncontrollable smile.
4. Get Others to Laugh
On bad days, we tend to get stuck in our own heads with worry, stress, and the thought that life just can’t get any worse. Well, nothing breaks a dark spell like laughter, whether it’s your own or someone else’s. You could pull a funny face, tell a joke, or make a witty observation that gets people splitting their sides.
Helping others, even if the gesture is small, can make a world of difference in somebody’s life and yours. Let’s keep the smiles coming and remember – Pay It Forward!
