The festive season is here, bringing family fun times, jolly jingles and food forever. Not everyone finds this time of year quite so joyful however. Previously, we have looked at the issue of loneliness, especially around Christmas. There are also many other reasons why people may not feel full of festive cheer. Money worries, weather conditions and family feuds to name but a few. Not to mention the small matter of a global pandemic…
So here are 5 easy ways to spread a little joy to the world and make people smile.
1. Time
We live very fast paced lives, and time is at a premium for most of us. Why not use some of those valuable minutes to offer help to those around you. Why not offer an hour of time to your neighbours? You could help with carrying shopping, babysitting while presents are wrapped or de-ice the path outside the house. You can be sure they will be very grateful.
Image Source: Pexels
2. Small Gestures
We have all heard the expression ‘it’s the little things that count.’ Make an effort to do small things for others to brighten their day. Hold the door open for someone, or pay for a strangers coffee in a café. Try really looking someone in the eye while you say a heartfelt “Thank you” or give a stranger a compliment in passing.
Image Source: Pexels
3. Be planet kind
Being kind to the planet is just as important as being kind to people. Instead of sending lots of Christmas cards in the post, try reduce your carbon footprint by sending e-cards. Even better, give your friends and family a video call – we are all experts at those by now! If you have things that you never use, but other would love, why not re-gift some of it? Thinking about the food we buy and the packaging it’s in can make a huge difference to reduce single use plastic.
Image Source: Pexels
4. Invitations
If you know someone who is on their own for Christmas, invite them over to join you (as long as the host agrees of course!) Involve them in your festive traditions and try incorporate some of theirs to make them feel included in the joy.
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5. Smile and wave
Science has proven that smiling is contagious. Smile at everyone you pass and count how many smile back. You will have just brightened their day! Laughter really is the best medicine, so if you know someone has had a particularly tough day, why not share a funny story with them? Try stand in a safe place and wave at strangers in cars as they drive past to improve their daily commute.
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The WiseUp way
As a society, we tend to be very quick to let people know when they are doing something wrong. We can also all have a tendency to be pretty wrapped up in our own lives. Here at WiseUp, we love to focus on positive communication. Our activity days encourage team mates to motivate each other with encouraging words, cheering one another on through the tasks. Our challenges promote effective team collaboration as people help others across a range of fun activities. Please feel free to get in touch with our friendly staff to see when we could come to your school to run a great team event to help spread a little joy.
Image Source: WiseUp Team Building
Title Image Source: Pexels
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