Be Kind

A smile can go a long way... Simply turning up the corner of your mouth can drastically change someone's day. It can let someone know that you care, build up their confidence and even decrease their anxieties. That's why, in honour of National Smile Power Day I want to talk to you about a few simple ways you can make someone smile!

Firstly, make a phone call! Call someone you rarely see, whether it is a family member or a friend you haven't spoken to in a while. The one thing I don't do often enough is call my grandparents and I know that on the occasion I do they really appreciate it.

Give someone a genuine compliment! Last week I wasn't having a great day at work (as you do). I had made a few mistakes and messed up an order, which completely threw me off. After it had calmed down, an older woman came over telling me she thought I was doing an amazing job. It really lifted my mood and it's safe to say that she is now my favourite customer! 

Offer to do something that you wouldn't normally do. If it's cooking tea for your family or helping your mum do the weekly shop. Keeping someone company or letting them put their feet up for a change goes a long way in that department.

Make a donation or volunteer part of your day to a good cause. You don't have to go as far as donating a kidney even though I'm sure it would be much appreciated. Do something good that will benefit someone else much more than it will benefit you!

Remember to laugh! Life is better when you're laughing, it will always be the best form of therapy. Don't hold back a cringy pun and learn to laugh at your dads jokes every once and a while, even if it is a terrible dad joke!

If a friend has moved away or vice versa, send them a care package. It doesn't have to cost a lot of money, just bundle together a small box of their favourite stuff (sweets, smells, memories) and send it to them.

Last but not least, be kind. Smile often, at passing strangers in the street, your peers and co-workers. Hold the door open, spread good news and above all treat everyone with the same level of respect, as you'd give someone you love. Throw kindness around like confetti and it will fall down on you too.