Brighten Up Someone’s Day with These 7 Tips

During the pandemic, a lot of people have to stay at home and stay away from crowded areas. Some are fortunate enough to be with their families, but others have to be far away from the people that matter to them the most.

The pandemic can be challenging emotionally and mentally. If you have people in your home who are feeling bummed out during these times of uncertainty, you could take steps to spread some cheer.

Here are a few ideas that you could do to help put a smile on a person’s face:

1. Play Music

If you’ve taken up piano lessons or know how to play the guitar, put your musical talents to good use by taking song requests. Play happy or lively songs to lift people’s spirits.

Don’t know how to play any musical instrument? Don’t fret. You can curate a playlist that your friend or family member will like. Then, just hit play and let your preferred music app do the work.

2. Say Thanks

Words are powerful – and they’re sometimes enough to turn a frown upside down. You can start by thanking people who have helped you succeed or shaped you into who you are right now.

You could shoot a quick e-mail saying “Thanks for your help” or “Thanks for your patience and trust. I wouldn’t be where I am if not for you.” This seemingly small gesture can go a long way in brightening up a person’s mood.

3. Call Someone

Do you know someone who may be having a bad day at home or work? If you do, give them a quick call to check on them. You could say that you’re available to help and support them. You could also just offer a listening ear to find out why they’re feeling down in the dumps. A quick phone call may be enough to turn someone’s day around.

4. Bake Sweet Treats for Others

A lot of people are into eating delicious desserts. If you’re a whiz in the kitchen, why not whip up muffins, cakes, cookies and other homemade treats? Share your goodies with your family or neighbors who may be going through tough times because of the pandemic.

5. Give Away Self-Care Baskets

If you’re doing well in your finances, consider sharing your blessings by curating self-care baskets. Give them to people who are struggling during these stressful times. Your recipients could be someone you know who lost their job or lost someone from the dreaded virus.

What should you put in your basket? The contents are completely up to you. If you’re unsure what to put in the care kit, you could place candles, beauty products, healthy snacks and gift cards.

6. Do Household Chores

If you notice your partner or family member is working long hours or busier than usual, why not pitch in and do their chores? As they are working hard to make ends meet, you could change the oil in their car, do the laundry, wash the dishes or clean the house. Whatever household chore you choose to do for them, they’ll surely be thankful for your thoughtfulness.

7. Support Local Business Owners

A person does a happy dance when you purchase from a small business. This saying is actually true. Supporting barbershops, grocery stores and restaurants and other business establishments in your local community should be something you do year-round.

This is incredibly relevant in today’s landscape because many businesses are struggling to stay afloat. They, for instance, have to adapt to the social distancing rules of the pandemic. What’s worse, they may have to shorten their operating hours or close off a part of their store for crowd control purposes. These small businesses, therefore, are important to towns and cities. After all, no one wants to live in a country where Amazon and Target are the only shopping options available.

What can you do as a consumer or a loyal customer? You can support these small businesses however you can. A few things you could do are the following:

• Give a larger tip to your server or baristas

• Offer donuts or lunch to the business owner or the employees

• Recommend a small business to your friends, family members and colleagues at work

• Follow small businesses on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and share their posts

• Purchase a gift card, which you can use at a later time

Whatever you do, these businesses will surely appreciate your gesture and feel glad knowing that someone is supporting them through these times of uncertainty.

Life isn’t easy during the pandemic. The least you can do is to brighten up other people’s day. This will help them get through the crisis in one piece.