It’s almost Election Day, and I’m ready to say goodbye to this polarizing campaign cycle and breathe a sigh of relief. This election has made me rethink and reflect on our relationships with people, and the time we spend criticizing them or lifting our loved ones up. There are enough people in the world doing the former, but perhaps not enough people doing the latter. I think the world could always use a little more love. Here are four easy ways to do just that.
1. When you find yourself thinking about someone, text them, call them, or write them a letter.
You’ll be surprised at how often thoughts of people in your life run through your head. The next time you find yourself thinking about someone or smiling at something that reminds you of them — whether you haven’t spoken to them in a while or see them everyday — I suggest that you reach out that person. People love to hear that they are loved and in your thoughts.
2. Buy two of something you love, so you can share the experience of enjoying it with a friend.
Someone once asked me what kind of candy I’d be if I could choose, and I said a Kit-Kat. They’re among my favorite chocolate bars in the world precisely because they are so easy to split with a friend. So buy a Kit-Kat — or two of whatever chocolate, tea or coffee you prefer — so you can savor the delight with someone you love.
3. If someone’s told you about a favorite movie, song, or book — make the effort to watch it, listen to it or read it.
Thousands and thousands of other people might like the same song or book that your friend does, but that doesn’t change the fact that your friend has a very personal relationship with their favorite media. We love things because they mean something to us, and we tell people because we hope they will love it as fiercely as you do. So if a friend has previously told you about something that’s changed their life, make the effort to understand why. Then talk to them about it. It’s sure to bring a smile to their face.
4. Make a playlist or a personalized book list.
After telling your friend that you took a listen to their favorite song, go ahead and make them a playlist, or a list of books you think they’d enjoy, with explanations. It’s a little like the very 90’s tradition of making a mixtape for someone you love, but in the end, mixtapes are hardly about the music at all — instead, they’re about sharing your soul and heart. It means a lot to people when you share your most intimate feelings with them.
None of these images belong to Her Campus or the author.