Nine Ways to Spread Happiness

I recently came across an article I read a few years ago, that is worth sharing. Any opportunity to share goodness with others is an opportunity worth taking. I really appreciate the ideas below by Stephanie Harrison, author of  “The New Happy.”  I encourage you to reach out to someone after reading this… and sharing some of that goodness!

You have a superpower that you might not know about: the power to make another person glow. Here are nine little phrases you can say to instantly brighten someone's day:

1. "I am proud of you."

This compliment is often reserved for big achievements, like a promotion or graduation. But the people around you wake up every day and try their best to achieve their goals, make a positive impact and overcome challenges.

So don't forget to celebrate other forms of effort, too.

2. "I see your gifts." 

Everyone has unique strengths, but might not know what they are. Studies have found that using your strengths is associated with living a happier life.

Show people what they're best at so they'll feel more confident by calling it out when you see it in action. And be as specific as you can.

A few examples:

To a colleague: "You were so patient as you walked the client through the contract and answered all of their questions."

To a friend: "You always make me laugh, even during the toughest times."

3. "Tell me more about that."

One thing that's guaranteed to make someone's day: asking them to tell you more about their interests, feelings and experiences. Being listened to helps people to feel safe, supported and acknowledged.

4. "I love you as you are."

People have a deep need to feel accepted and loved. It's important to remind them that they're wonderful — not just for what they do, but for who they are.

Reminding someone of their value can take many forms, like:

To a direct report: "I feel lucky that you are on our team."

To a friend: "I love spending time with you."

5. "I am grateful for you." 

Expressions of gratitude start a positive upward cycle. A study found when you feel appreciated by your romantic partner, you also become more appreciative of them.

Gratitude even transforms work cultures by reducing uncivil behavior on teams. 

A few words of appreciation can kickstart this change:

To a direct report: "I am grateful for your insightful comments in that meeting."

To a friend: "Thank you for a great phone call. Your advice really helped me."

6. "You are making a difference." 

Having purpose in life is associated with greater life satisfaction and better health.

Keep others motivated by reminding them of the good they're doing now:

Remind them of the ripple effect of their actions: "The money you raised is going to help families who need housing this winter."

7. "You inspire me." 

Who has been inspiring you lately? Have you told them so? We tend to keep these feelings to ourselves, but imagine how much it would mean to someone to hear it:

Here's a helpful script you can use:

Start with: "You inspire me …"

Then add the reason why: "... in the way you show up for your friends and family…"

Finally, share the impact it has had: "... and it's made me think about how I can be a better friend."

8. "You can do this." 

We've all struggled with gaining confidence, especially when trying new things. What we need during those moments is something that psychologists call self-efficacy, or the belief that you can take on a challenge successfully. 

Remind them of past successes: "You got through that hard time at work a few years ago, and I know you can do it again."

Point out a recent win: "You did an incredible job presenting in yesterday's meeting. I know you can do it again for this more senior audience." 

9. "You changed my life." 

Think about someone who has had a great impact on your life, but who you never properly thanked. Maybe it was a teacher who helped you master a subject, or a mentor in your first job.

Give them a call, send them a note or visit them in person to express how their support changed your life.