We each have the power to make someone in our lives or those with whom we come in contact feel remembered, feel good, feel unique. Here are a few suggestions. Being sincere has the most powerful effect.
Acknowledge birthdays.
Most people appreciate when the anniversary of their birth is remembered. And when you aren't heralding your day, it's even more satisfying to know you are remembered. Send a card to those celebrating their birthday. Send it via snail mail for a heightened effect! (If you are worried about creating unnecessary waste, there are plenty of cards that are now made from recycled material). Getting mail that doesn’t consist of bills, advertisements or other junk, is always welcome. If you can’t send a card, then calling, emailing or texting a message are good alternatives. Let your friends and family know you remember their day. FB greetings don’t seem especially thoughtful, as there is a built in reminder and writing on someone's wall doesn't seem all that special. But making the added effort of sending a card or e-card is a lovely gesture!
Acknowledge special occasions.
I am really bad at remembering wedding anniversaries. It’s difficult to remember the day that everyone in each of our social circles said their nuptials but if you so desire, write important dates in your daily planner or electronic calendar. Send a card or an electronic greeting or simply call on that day. A greeting in any form -- to wish people well -- is wonderful.
Show admiration.
When you admire someone for a talent, a trait, or any quality -- TELL THEM!
Send thank you notes and show appreciation.
When someone gives us a gift, or does something special, it makes sense to show appreciation. A simple thank you note will do but a small gift is always nice in appreciation of someone's efforts to help you.
Spread good news.
Spread the news of others' successes or achievements. Talking about people isn’t good form unless of course it is to celebrate them. Use discretion and take desire for privacy into consideration.
Give compliments.
It’s always nice to receive a genuine compliment. This is similar to showing admiration. But a compliment is appropriate for the smallest things to the most elaborate. A nicely cooked dinner, the way someone is dressed, a new haircut, a home redecorating project, etc. etc.
Send a "thinking of you" note.
For no reason at all, say hello to someone you haven’t seen or spoken to in a while. This is powerful. Let the other person know they are on your radar. Let them know you are thinking of them.
Do something nice for someone
Do something nice, just because you care and you can! It will make you and the recipient of your gesture feel great!
THINK B.A.R.E, BE B.A.R.E.