11 October is National Spread Joy Day, and what better way to celebrate it than by getting your hands dirty and spreading the stuff yourself? So wherever you are and whatever you may be doing with your day, give someone a wonderful Wednesday by trying out some of the following.
1. Smile at someone
Smile and the world smiles with you, they say. Okay, maybe not the whole world, but, hey, smile big, think big. Let’s face it, a lot of us are just waiting for the permission to smile. So go ahead and be the perfect permission-granter! And did you know that smiling burns more calories than frowning? That’s one huge incentive to dust off that grin.
2. Compliment someone
Well, who doesn’t like a compliment? And if Mark Twain could live two months on one, then a lot of mileage can clearly be got out of them. To appreciate just how effective compliments are, think of the last time you were complimented and how good it made you feel. Take pleasure in making someone else feel that good. And let’s not forget: paying a compliment costs nothing.
3. Share a laugh
Laughter really is the best medicine. It improves mood, reduces pain and strengthens your immune system. Who needs pills with something that good? So crack a joke, post a meme or just share a moment of merriment by the watercooler and get ready to guffaw like a good ’un.
4. Make someone feel valued
We humans are a largely undervalued bunch, so take the time to show the people around you that you appreciate what they do, whether it’s your significant other or the barista that serves your coffee. You don’t have to prepare a written speech; just a thank-you said with feeling can make all the difference to a person’s day.
5. Do a good deed
Most of us are leading such busy lives that we often miss opportunities to do a good turn. It needn’t be anything life-changing. Holding open a door, lending an ear, giving up your seat on a bus or train – all these little acts of kindness count. When you help people out in this way, you’ve not only made their day easier but leave them feeling that there are still some decent folk in the world.
So as you set off to unleash your joy on the world, feel proud in your role as joy-spreader, knowing you’re changing the world one joy at a time.
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