20 Ways to Make People Smile

Do you want to bring joy to someone's day today? Maybe give them a reason to smile, even if it's just for a moment. It costs nothing to do this and takes only a few seconds of your time. A friendly word, a warm smile, or a kind gesture can brighten someone’s mood more than you might realize.

Think about how small acts, like complimenting a coworker, holding the door open, or sharing a funny joke, can make a difference. When you smile at someone, it can lift their spirits and remind them that they are seen and appreciated. Because smiling is contagious, your small effort might trigger a chain reaction—maybe that person will pass on a smile to someone else, spreading happiness around. On any given day, many people face stress, worries, or loneliness.

A simple act of kindness can have a surprising impact, even if only for a short while. When you take a moment to do something thoughtful, it can lift someone’s spirits and change their day for the better. You don’t need a lot of time or money to make a difference. A genuine intention to bring a little happiness to someone else is enough. Just think about how easy it is to smile at a stranger, say hello to a neighbor, or compliment a friend on their outfit or work. These small gestures may seem insignificant, but they can hold great meaning for someone who needs to feel appreciated or seen. Sometimes, a kind word or a friendly act can break through someone's stress or sadness, reminding them that they matter. These tiny moments of kindness can create a ripple effect. They can brighten a bleak day or restore someone’s hope. When people experience kindness from others, it can remind them to do the same for someone else. It’s a simple cycle that makes the world a kinder place.

We often underestimate how powerful these small acts are. Saying “hello” to someone in the crowd might seem trivial, but it could be the first positive interaction they’ve had all day. Offering a compliment, like telling someone they look nice, can boost their confidence and make them smile. Giving someone a quick thank you or holding the door open can make them feel appreciated. These actions cost nothing but can mean everything. They show that we care about each other and that kindness still exists in everyday life. You might be surprised how just a moment of genuine kindness can lift your own mood as well. It’s a small act for you, but a big boost for someone else. Sometimes, those tiny gestures are just enough to make the world seem a little brighter, one person at a time.

Here are 20 ways to turn that frown upside down.

1. Send some flowers to your partner at work.

2. Compliment a friend or work colleague on their appearance.

3. Donate something to charity.

4. Take a friend out to lunch.

5. Let someone know you miss them.

6. Make a surprise telephone call to your partner at work, just to say hi.

7. Hold a door open for someone walking behind you.

8. Hug your partner for no reason.

9. Leave a joke on a friends answer machine.

10. Send a card to a friend letting them know what a good friend they are.

11. Give up your seat on the train to someone when there aren't any left.

12. Share your umbrella on a rainy day.

13. Ask a friend if they need anything while you're out shopping.

14. When it's raining, plan an indoor picnic with your children.

15. Leave a love letter somewhere where your partner will find it.

16. Send someone an unusual and unexpected gift like chocolate, flowers or sex toys.

17. Tell your child you're proud of them.

18. Tell someone you thought about them the other day.

19. Cook a surprise meal for your partner one night, especially if they normally do the cooking.

20. Tell your partner you love them.

Did you know it takes only 17 muscles to smile, but 43 to frown. Why waste all that energy frowning when you could just smile.

Here are 5 more facts about smiling.

1. Women smile more than men.

2. Smiling releases endorphins that make us feel better.

3. We are all born with the ability to smile, it's not something we learn from others.

4. A smile is a universal expression of happiness.

5. A smiling person is thought to be a more pleasant, attractive, sociable, sincere and competent than a non-smiling person.

Just remember, smiling is the easiest and cheapest way of improving your looks.