The Usual Interpretation
We have probably all heard the phrase “leave things better than you found them” at some point in our lives. However, sometimes I myself feel I am limiting this phrase to strictly material ways. This could include cleaning up a work-space or desk, returning a car with a full tank of gas, or dry-cleaning an outfit after borrowing it.
The Challenge
For the next week I challenge you to leave more than just material things in a better standing than when you found them. Further this saying by applying it to people.
Brighten Someone’s Day
We all know how good it feels to get a compliment or a note of encouragement, especially from a random stranger. Even if it’s something small, I myself know that my day gets sunnier and more energetic just from one nice comment from one person. I am willing to bet that you feel the same way as well.
So why not go about our day, being that uplifting and encouraging person for others? You not only will brighten multiple peoples’ day but will also find yourself feeling much more positive. You don’t have to do anything big unless you want to. Easy to do examples can be like…
- Tell the lady at the drive through she has a cute haircut.
- Smile at the passing jogger on the sidewalk.
- Tell your coworker how much you admire his work.
- Start up a friendly chat with the elderly lady on the bus.
Many times it’s the small things that count and can make a big difference.
The Goal
For the next week, try to give out 2-3 compliments a day to random strangers or those you don’t know as well. Or, if you are feeling shy, simply smile at them. You never know what that person is going through and a small kindness from you could encourage them to keep trying. You’ll be amazed at how happier you feel by making others happy. So go out there and leave people happier and better than you found them. 🙂
Let me know what you did and how the person reacted. Most importantly, how did it feel being a positive influence on someone else’s day.