4 Simple Ways to Create a Brighter World
Spreading the good stuff can be effortless
It’s so easy to see yourself as somehow separate from the world. But you are one thread in the tapestry of life; you are inextricably woven into the fabric of your society.
Therefore, if you long for a kinder, happier world, the responsibility lies with you to help make it so. And, really, some of the most profound steps you can take are completely effortless:
1. Learn the names of people you interact with, and use them
Asking for and repeating the names of people you meet creates an immediate human connection and allows those who often feel anonymous to be “seen”. Checkout operators, gas attendants, baristas, wait staff and receptionists … everyone has dreams, desires and history, and using their name is a quick and compassionate acknowledgement of this. It takes less than a second to read a name badge or ask for someone’s name and yet the effect it has on someone’s day can be significant.
2. Thank everyone who makes your life more pleasant
If you live in a developed city, town or community, there is a high likelihood that your life is made more pleasant by an army of invisible workers, just doing their job. The cleaners who maintain your office or classroom; the janitors who refresh the washrooms at the local mall; the technicians who maintain your electricity and cellphone coverage; the coaches, umpires and managers who underpin every sporting event. If you are blessed, like me, you may be constantly supported by your housekeeper, or a gardener or pool cleaner.
Whenever you see any of these invisible workers — anyone who is improving the quality of your life in some small and simple way — thank them. It costs nothing and, not only will you allow them to feel validated and appreciated, but you will gain a greater understanding of the many, many small things you can be grateful for in life.
3. Develop a smiling resting face
My teenage children tease me relentlessly about my resting face — the broad smile that beams out whenever I am walking on the street, or shopping in the grocery store — but your resting face can have a huge impact on others around you. Put simply, there is magic in your smile — it’s stress relieving, it’s attractive and it’s contagious.
Okay, this practice may not be completely effortless — you may have to train yourself to smile when you are at rest — but once the habit is set, you’ll be spreading the good stuff all day long without even thinking about it.
4. Increase your dose of daily happiness
One of the most profound things you can do for your community is be happier. I mean really, truly commit to creating happiness, contentment and joy in your own life. Why? Because studies have shown that being happy is the fastest way to make others happy too!
According to researchers Nicholas A. Christakis and James H. Fowler, contentment flows out from “happy people” like ripples to increase the well being of their friends … and their friends’ friends … and their friends’ friends’ friends! When you give yourself permission to do things just because they bring you joy, you not only increase your own happiness but you also have a profound, positive impact on the wider community, including people you may never meet.
So, in order to spread the good stuff it’s a really good idea to absorb some, too. Whenever possible, make a decision to stay away from people and situations that cause you stress or distress. Seek out activities and environments that lift your spirits, ignite your inspiration and bring a smile to your face. Take up meditation and/or a gratitude journal. Choose happy!
And help make this world a brighter place.
Kim Forrester is an award-winning author, educator and intuitive consultant with over 15 years’ experience as a professional intuitive and spiritual teacher. She combines cutting edge science with traditional spirituality to offer the latest understandings of psi, consciousness and holistic well being.
