Help make someone’s day, and your own

Matt Haig wrote in The Comfort Book, that we are all connected in seen and unseen ways. This possibly explains why “one of the simplest and quickest routes to happiness seems to be, to make someone else happy. The reason to be selfless is selfishness. Nothing makes us feel better than not thinking about, ourselves”

Having read this, I decided to affirm others more, including strangers, which I knew could be risky. Let’s be honest we all need some praise and affirmation. Affirming or complimenting friends and family is possibly easier, but for strangers, that requires a bit more courage.

A few weeks ago, I was standing in the queue at the supermarket and the lady in front of me had the most beautiful, flawless skin. She was a mature woman and wasn’t wearing any make-up. As she paid and started to move off, I said to her “I hope you don’t mind me saying this, but you have the most beautiful skin”, she responded by saying “Oh no not really.” I affirmed her again, and this time her eyes teared up and she said, “Thank you, you have just made my day.”

I felt my anxieties fall away as I saw how a simple positive comment had made this woman’s day. I had taken a risk and it had paid off. I know there may be a time when a compliment might not be so well received, however, that will be an issue for the person receiving the compliment. Praise comes from a heart place, and I guess maybe for some, if their hearts are closed, for whatever reason, they won’t hear the positive comment.

I have continued to affirm others more.  It might be commenting on a grandchild happily exploring on the beach, or the owner of a curious puppy lopping around in the park, or thanking the shop assistant for their help, or affirming someone who challenged themselves and succeeded. When I see the positive reaction of the people I’ve affirmed, I feel better within myself.

Go on give it a try 😊