We all like to feel appreciated. Think of the last time someone did something unexpectedly nice for you, “just because”. It probably made you feel great. And here’s a secret: it made the other person feel good, too!
So, want to feel terrific while simultaneously making someone else’s day? Here are ____ inexpensive (or free!) ways to express your appreciation for someone, whether it’s your spouse, family member, neighbor, coworker, friend, or even a stranger.
- Take donuts or another treat to work for your co-workers.
- Wash your spouse’s car.
- Surprise someone by taking them to dinner and a movie.
- Hand-write a letter or card with a sincere, positive message.*
- Leave a love note in your spouse’s pocket, or another place where they’ll find it when you’re not around.
- Pick up someone’s favorite treat from the grocery store.
- Call someone who lives far away and who would love to hear from you.
- Offer to go out for a drink with someone.
- Leave a kind message on a mirror with a dry erase marker.
- Surprise someone on their half-birthday.
- Compliment someone on a physical feature or outfit choice.
- Take care of an unpleasant chore you know they hate (like taking out the trash or cleaning the cat litter box).
- Run an errand, like dry cleaning or grocery shopping.
- Offer to baby-sit or house-sit (but only if you mean it!)
- Compliment someone on something they do well (be specific!)
- Give out water bottles on a hot day (especially if someone is doing yard work or something physically draining).
- Open the door and smile for a stranger.
- Tip generously, and add a kind note if possible.
- Clean up the house without any prompting.
- Let someone else pick the movie at the theater.
- Give a gift certificate to a store/restaurant someone likes.
- Offer to help with any major project (like moving, etc).
- Make their favorite meal for dinner.
- At a friend’s house, offer to do the dishes or another household task.
- Or, simply someone how much (and why) you appreciate them!
These little things can make a world of difference, especially if you or someone else is having a bad day. Even if you think people know you appreciate them, show them anyway!
Janet Hill Jackson
P.S. Be sure to watch this video