Taking time out of your day to make someone feel special goes a long way, not just for them but for you too. Showing someone that they matter to you strengthens relationships of all kinds, whether it is a colleague, a family member, a friend, or a partner. What we often fail to realise is just how uplifting it can be to those around us when we acknowledge them and what they mean to us personally.
Making someone feel special need not be a great show of emotion; it can be a nod of encouragement when you can see they are feeling overwhelmed or a public compliment in recognition of their hard work. What may seem like a small gesture on your side could leave them smiling for the rest of the day.
Often, it is the seemingly insignificant things that count the most, and as the saying goes “Sometimes it is the smallest things that take up the most room in your heart.” Come with us as we explore some great ways you can make those around you feel more special.
Show Your Appreciation
Letting someone know you appreciate them is one of the simplest ways to make someone feel special. An acknowledgement they have done something that has made a difference in your life, no matter how big or small that something is, shows your appreciation.
Give Your Undivided Attention
Focusing all of your energy and attention on someone when they talk to you, shows that you care. How many times have you been in conversation with someone only to have them tap out a message on their phone or take a call when you are mid-sentence? By providing a person with your full attention, you communicate that what they have to say means something to you, that they are important.
Take Note
Taking time to listen to and observe those around you allows you to pick up on the things that matter most to them. Perhaps you overheard the girl that sits opposite you at work say she is collecting bottle tops for her son’s school project. Making an effort to bring her the pile of bottle tops that you have lying around at home will not only help her out but will show that someone was listening.
Make A Memory
Perhaps you have a friend who is going through a particularly rough time, maybe things at home are rocky, or their boss is less than appreciative of their hard work. Plan a fun mini-event such a picnic lunch and come and fetch them from work during their lunch hour. A small break like this will show them that you care and it will give them a welcome respite. Not only that, you will have created a wonderful memory together that you can look back on and smile about.
Give Unique Gifts
A gift, explicitly personalised to someone’s tastes, loves, or hobbies is a fun way to make someone feel special. Not only does it show that you know them and what matters to them most, but it also makes it about them and not just about the act of giving. Taking time to create a custom present takes gifting to the next level. Uploading a photo of you and your friend to a fun site like PrintsField and having them print the picture on a diary, a pair of socks, or even a travel mug, will blow your friend away. It will also go a long way in showing them how much they mean to you.
See Their Potential
If someone you care about is thinking of trying something new or taking a big step, but they are feeling uncertain, a little encouragement goes a long way. Letting them know you believe in them and that you support them will help give them the courage to take that leap. You could even give them a small gift such as a custom notebook that they can jot down their dreams and goals, or perhaps a pair of socks with burgers printed on them for that family member who is starting their own catering company.
Pay A Compliment
While appearance is not everything, telling someone you think their shoes are exceptional or that a scarf brings out their eyes will always leave a person feeling special. Taking the time to notice when a colleague or friend has had their hair done and then mentioning how wonderful it looks is another small way you can brighten someone’s day. Making people feel seen by acknowledging them, even in a small way shows them they are relevant, and that they matter.
Be Affectionate
Holding your partner’s hand in public, hugging someone when they feel sad, or giving a warm handshake to someone you have just met allows you to connect with people on all levels, making each of them feel loved and special.