A few weeks ago, my bike chain popped while I was out for a long ride. Fortunately, a stranger stopped and knew exactly how to fix it, and I was soon on my way. If you take a moment to reflect, I’m sure you can think of an example in your own life where you were thankful to have been helped along by a kind stranger.
In addition to our colleagues and loved ones, most of us walk among a myriad of strangers while “out and about” in our daily lives. Much of the time, we don’t even notice those around us because we’re buried in our smart phones or focused on what lies ahead in the day.
In a world where we can feel bombarded by negative messages and depressing stories from every media source, why not get into the habit of creating a little positivity each day?
Not everyone has the resources to volunteer or donate, and you may not stumble across a stranded cyclist anytime soon. However, everyone has the ability to make a difference in the lives of those around them.
You may never know it, but taking a moment to offer a kind gesture may be the exact thing that turns a stranger’s day completely around. And, it will likely make your day better, too. Win-win!
Here are 10 free ways that you can boost the positive energy in the world every day in 10 seconds or less:
1. Hold the elevator
2. Show appreciation
3. Consciously smile 🙂
4. Say “Good Morning”
5. Give a genuine compliment
6. Open the door for someone
7. Let the car next to you merge
8. Offer your seat on the bus or train
9. Let the person with 1 item ahead of you in line
10. Tell the Restaurant Manager your Server was outstanding
Why not choose 1 from the list to try tomorrow? “Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day.” (Sally Koch)
Well said.