As the new year dawns, it behoves us to work towards becoming a better version of ourselves. And most of the times, all we need to impact a life or make a situation better, are just little things. Here are some thoughtful gestures to help you become better this year.
1. Take a little effort to say “Thank you” to the Bus driver in whose bus you alight from.
2. Volunteer yourself to pick up groceries or assist an elderly neighbor, especially one who seem fragile.
3. If indeed you love someone, then tell them . Say “I love you.”
4. You may be in a hurry, but create a moment to say “Good morning” to a person standing next to you in the elevator.
5. Whenever you receive a new gift, consider giving out an old one. There are lots of people who need them too.
6. Have you ever considered bringing your assistant a coffee? Now, do it. It would be a surprise that is really worth it.
7. Without prior notice, order for lunch to be sent to your friends while they’re busy in their own Offices.
8. A single mom would definitely appreciate the gesture if you offer to baby-sit for her.
9. Take a minute, to give direction to someone who needs it even though you seem to be in a rush.
10. Say “please” and “thank you” when it matters. And yes, you must really mean it!
11. Give a call or write to someone who positively impacted your life.
12. Relax your energy while in traffic, and let a fellow driver merge into your lane.
13. Give a quick moment to greet the men you meet at security post while going in or out. You may want to consider a cute nod of the head, a simple smiling face or a wave.
14. Write out to a child who you think deserves some extra attention. Kids love getting mails.
15. Forgive someone a debt. Yes, and ensure not to bring it up again.
16. Give hear to someone trying to explain him/herself. Do not interrupt. Even if you are the boss, don’t.
17. Consider offering your seat an elderly person, a pregnant woman or a disabled, especially when in a crowded train or bus.
18. Arrive the office with a box of doughnuts or chocolates and ensure it goes round.
19. Still at office, consider offering to transfer call from someone who needs help, to the appropriate department.
20. Your friend may be vacationing, but his dog would need care while he is away, volunteer to take care of the dog if you can squeeze out the time.
21. Leave a generous tip for a a waiter you think has been faithful and committed, with no motives attached.
22. Take an extra effort to help a mother carry her baby stroller up the subway stairs, or you may help hold a door or open for her.
23. Ask someone “How are you really doing?”—and then listen with all your senses to the response they give.
24. Encourage someone who seems despondent. Give them real-life advice if you have one.
25. Write a note to someone else’s boss and explain how great that person has been doing at work or other areas pertaining to work.
26. Pass along a great book you’ve just finished reading. Especially book you believe would be of great impact to someone else who may not necessarily be a close friend.
27. Help out in cleaning up after an event at a friend, family, house party or even your church. They will surely feel relieved from the burden you help them lessen.
