We all have days when life feels heavy, when stress, doubt, or loneliness creeps in, and the weight of the world feels like too much. The truth is, you never really know what someone is carrying. A smile, a kind word, or a simple act of thoughtfulness might be the very thing that keeps them going.
Studies show that small gestures of kindness have a profound impact on mental health. A report from the American Psychological Association found that acts of kindness significantly reduce stress, increase feelings of connection, and even help ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. In a world where so many are silently struggling, a little encouragement can be life-changing.
This seems like a great place to insert a little confession: I’m really bad at this. I tend to focus on projects over people to a fault. I took a DISC assessment once and, no joke, my dot on the “wheel” was OUTSIDE the circle in the “fast-paced, task-oriented” quadrant. It takes a ridiculously high degree of intentionality for me to slow down long enough to do the things that I’m about to suggest to you. But lately I’ve tried a bit harder in this area, and while it’s not easy for me and probably never will be, it is super important and even gratifying to get to bring a little bit of joy to someone who needs it. If this seems “outside the norm” for you, you’re not alone, but if you will give this a shot, I promise you’ll be glad you did.
So, how can you be the kind of person who brightens someone’s day? Here are a few easy ways to lift up a friend:
- Send a random text – A quick “Thinking about you today! Hope you’re doing great” takes seconds to write but can mean everything to the right person at the right time.
- Drop off their favorite coffee or snack – Unexpected little gifts are a small but powerful way to show someone you care.
- Write a note – A handwritten note or sticky note on their desk/car with a kind message can be a memorable boost.
- Celebrate the little wins – Did they finish a tough project? Overcome a challenge? Let them know you see their hard work. (After I post this, the next thing I’m going to do is write a “way to go” note to someone who did something at church yesterday that probably seemed really insignificant to her, but I watched it make a difference to someone else, and I want to let her know it was noticed and appreciated.)
- Leave an anonymous encouragement – A gift card in their mailbox, a Venmo transfer with a note like “Just because,” or a book you think they’d love are great ways to surprise them.
- Make time for them – Call just to catch up. Offer to grab lunch. People feel valued when they know someone wants to spend time with them.
What’s one small act of kindness you can do today? The possibilities are endless, and the impact is immeasurable. Today, I challenge you to do something unexpected and kind for a friend. Be the reason someone smiles, feels seen, or remembers that they matter. You never know how much it might mean.
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