Sometimes life comes at you fast and can weigh you down, despite how happy you usually are. Whether it’s a trip being canceled, a buddy moving across the country, or a torrential downpour during a hike—we all get the blues. You may not know about everything your friends are going through but you can easily brighten someone’s day with a thoughtful gesture.
How can I improve someone’s day?
Just acknowledging someone’s presence in your life already speaks volumes while people go about the hustle and bustle of their daily grind. You can do more than simply send a text or email. Going the extra mile carries more weight and requires slightly more thought, however, it is greatly appreciated. And there’s no need to spend a lot of money or make any grand gestures. We have wrapped up a few simple ideas to send some sunshine your buddy’s way.
Send a message
By message, we mean a card—a just because card, to be exact. Grab a pen and go old school. Choose one with a simple text like a straightforward “hi” or suggest a potential casual hangout you both enjoy, like camping or surfing. Get a “SUP With You” card for your paddleboard loving buddy or a “Camping Please” card to initiate future plans that include marshmallows and s’mores. Include an outdoor sticker they can use to decorate their water bottle or laptop to remind them that nature is always calling. A good vibes sticker looks fresh on a journal or sketchbook or pretty much anywhere.
Send a gift
Get your outdoor loving buddy a nifty gift like an enamel pin they can put on their duffel that has been around the world. A super cool map pin will look right at home among the flags of all the countries your buddy has traveled to. Or perhaps they can use it to decorate their daypack. It doesn’t need to be super pricey to brighten their day. After all, it’s the thought that counts.
Give a compliment
The truth is, no matter how good of buddies you are, you don’t always know another person’s insecurities. Perhaps they have been working hard for that promotion but their work isn’t being acknowledged quite as much as it should. Simply tell them you are proud of the effort they are putting in. Did your buddy get a new haircut? Are they finally going to the gym? Compliment them by telling them they look great. It requires such little effort but can instantly turn their day around.
Do something nice – give your time
Nothing is valued more than your time. Brighten someone’s day by making time for them, and grab coffee or offer to help them out with something they have going on. If you know they have been spending a lot of time working in their garden, lend a helping hand and enjoy some chit chat together. Offer to join them while they walk their dog in the evening or help them cook dinner.
