1. Learn something new.
As the saying goes “Knowledge is power!” And its so true. Learning more about anything a) makes you a more well-rounded person, b) sparks your curiosity to actually then learn more, and c) keeps you informed about issues that need further scrutiny, more support, or better solutions. A deep-seated love of learning can go a long way in making our world a better place.
And its so easy to learn something new every day. Subscribe to a word-a-day calendar and increase your vocabulary, read a non-fiction book and find out the truth behind any subject that might even remotely interest you, watch the news and see (some of) the important problems facing our nation, or talk to someone and gain a new perspective. Its that simple.
2. Smile at a stranger.
Random acts of kindness could shape our world. Ever see the movie Pay It Forward? Or maybe this commercial for Liberty Mutual? Imagine what it would be like if one person did something nice for one other person without expecting something in return. Our society would run more smoothly, people would gain a better, more positive outlook on life, and maybe-just maybe-we would become more open-minded and receptive to new races, cultures, and ways of life.
It could start with a smile. It only takes 17 muscles to smile, so its no huge effort. Just putting on a happy face while walking down the street could start a chain reaction. Seeing someone smile is contagious; first you might wonder why that person is smiling, but then you start to realize the other person is just happy. You start to think of reasons to be happy and next thing you know, you’re smiling too. Random acts of kindness don’t have to be hugely expensive or completely overwhelming to perform. A smile is easy, and so is holding open a door, picking up a child’s toy, or letting someone into traffic.
3. Stop and smell the roses.
No, seriously, stop and smell them. Admire the world around you, really let it sink in. The world we live in is a beautiful place. Whether you live in a bustling urban metropolis or a tiny rural community you can find something that makes you happy just by taking a minute to look at it and appreciate it. Its really hard to want to change the world if we have no pride or love for the place where we live.
If you live in a rural area, maybe literally stopping to smell the roses will inspire you to think green(er). If you’re in a city area, where there might not be any roses to smell, you can certainly spot the incredible works of man. And that could get you thinking about new ways to improve the place where you live.
Plus, taking some time out of your day to slow down and be amazed by the world helps reenergize the mind, body, and soul.
Well, what are you waiting for? Get out there and change the world! And remember to have fun doing it :-)
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