All caught up in “Corona”? It’s no wonder, with everyone spouting, “Stay safe” everywhere you go. Instead of constantly reminding everyone that they are supposedly in constant danger and “unsafe,” radiate positivity to brighten an unsuspecting person’s day. Making others happy is one of the best ways to brighten up your own world.
When was the last time you made someone smile or laugh? Why should you even bother smiling? Well, for starters, smiling releases endorphins that actually make you feel better. It happens to be the universal expression of happiness in this upside down world of ours. Emotional responses alter your mood. And who couldn’t use a bit of mood altering right now?
So many get suffocated by their adult, all-grown-up shell, that they forget how much fun it is to play games. Gather your friends or family around and have at it. No, you’re not silly. It’s called “fun.” And you deserve some right about now.
Want to ease someone’s burden? Surprise her with a gift for no reason or do a random act of kindness. And make sure it’s a surprise. Give him a rave review and compliment him on just about anything. “I love the way you think.” Yeah, we all think we’re smart until we try to turn on someone else’s shower. My husband says our children have my brains, because he still has his. Heh.
Allow someone waiting in line at the supermarket to get ahead of you. If your friend had a really bad day and wants to share, just listen. Try to remember important happenings or upcoming events in his life. Heck if my memory was any worse, I could plan my own surprise party. But the important thing to remember – is not to forget. Reach out and ask how it all turned out.
When was the last time you reminded someone that you cherish and love them? Trust me, there is a real upside in lifting others up, especially when some of us feel that the powers that be are trying to tear us all apart. Simply tell someone that you were thinking of them today. Did you ever get a text from that special friend that changed your whole mood? Hey, I hit a parked car when I was texting. Even sadder: I was walking.
For mercy’s sake, let someone into your lane when you’re driving. Do you also look both ways before crossing a one-way street? Such little faith in humanity, eh? Heh. If she is blue to the bone, encourage her with your grounded and optimistic view. Everyone’s fears are exaggerated. Try to lessen his worries.
Cook her favorite food, or order her favorite takeout. Make him a cup of coffee or tea just the way he likes it. Ahhh. What a stress reducer. The key to life is positivi-tea. A bad day with coffee is better than a good day without it. And remember: Good friends don’t spill the beans.
Do something nice for him “just because.” No need to wait for a Hallmark holiday to give those treats. If she accomplishes something difficult or meaningful, by all means tell her that you are proud of her. Those are some of most powerful words we can hear. Praise him in public. Say the words: “I love you.” Or: “If I were a cell phone, you would be the charger. I would be dead without you.” Awww. “I promise to love you, even through Football season.” “True love means never having to explain your Star Wars references.”
Create a care package for someone. Toss in some lemon candies with a note: “To sweeten your sour day.” Send chocolate chip cookies with a card: “You’re one tough cookie.” Send pistachios with a tag: “I’m going nuts without you.”
Hold the door for someone, even if she is a slowpoke. Trust me, you have those few seconds to spare. Find something captivating about him, and share it. If there’s someone in your past who had a hand in shaping who you have become, reach out and let them know what a difference they made. Imagine if someone did that for you.
Do that household chore before you’re even asked. Housework: You know: that job that nobody notices you did, until you haven’t done it. Fill her gas tank. Shovel the snow off her car in the morning before work. Set the thermostat to the temperature he likes for a bit. What’s a little hypothermia or frostbite among friends anyway?
We all love that somebody who makes everyone feel like a somebody. Tell her what you like about her. Try to think about things from a different point of view. Don’t ask: “How are you?” Ask: “How are you, really?” Send them a pizza. You’ll always have a pizza my heart. Awww. Me? I’m easy to please. You had me at “chocolate.” Oh, and if you get melted chocolate all over your hands, you’re eating it too slowly.
But truly, sweet friends, now more than ever, make someone smile each day. And remember: You’re someone, too.
Caroline is a licensed psychotherapist, crisis counselor, and writer with an office in Queens. She works with individuals, couples, and families. Appointments are available throughout the week and weekends. She can be reached at 917-717-1775 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at facebook.com/pages/Safe-Haven-Healing.