Smile
Smiles with eye contact are becoming an endangered species. Look up from your phone, tablet or computer and actually connect with another person. It's very hard to be genuinely smiled at and not reciprocate, or to pass it on. Happiness is contagious, and it only takes a couple facial muscles to spread it.
Give a little
Next time you buy something new (a shirt for example), think about donating one of your other ones to a worthy person or cause. It will save your cupboards from overflowing, and you just may get someone out of a tight spot. The thing about giving a little is that when everyone gives a little, suddenly it turns into a lot. Be a part of that lot.
Get in touch. And listen.
Maybe you've been off on an adventure and you have a friend or relative you know is a bit lonely. Call them, or visit and share your experiences. It will fill up their day and probably bring up a happy mmory for them that they can share with you. Win Win.
Learn to ask open-ended questions and allow time and space to really listen to people's answers. One of the major causes of friction in relationships is the feeling of not being 'heard.' It doesn't need to take a long time to make someone feel better when you really listen closely.
Use please and thank you.
The smallest way to show your gratitude are to actually say please and thank you. Better still, if you appreciate someone or something, put it in writing – a quick note or email can do wonders. Being thankful can become a habit. For starters, try once a week to find something praise-worthy in your life. Build up to once a day. See how your attitide affects those around you – it can be life changing!
Support someone's dream
Do you know someone who is trying to make their dream a reality? Help them out! It doesn't have to be financial – you could help them brainstorm, design flyers, send emails or just raise awareness. If people feel others believe in them, they can't help but try harder. Everyone needs and appreciates sincere support.
Buy someone's coffee
It's just coffee, it won't change the world, but it is a neat thing to surprise someone with. You could brighten a stranger's day by buying an extra cup at your local cafe, or pick up an extra takeout coffee and give it to a friend who works closeby.
Take the first step. Be the reason someone smiles today. You will start a chain reaction to change the world for good.