How would this idea of leaving people better than you found them change you? How would it change your interactions with others? Would you treat others kindlier? Would you go out of the way to say something nice, a compliment or words of encouragement?

You might already be someone who does not put others down. This affirmation will help you to deepen your connection with others. Instead of just passing someone as you walk past, you keep your head up, look them in the eye, and smile. Or maybe instead of looking at your phone while waiting in line, you seek for things to say to those in line with you.

In the October 2020 General Conference of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sister Michelle D Craig, talked about having the eyes to see. She shared an experience where she felt prompted to not look at her phone while waiting in line. The next day she found herself standing in line, she followed that prompting and as a result had a conversation with a man who was also standing in line with her. By the end of the conversation, the man felt both seen and heard. All because she was willing to start up a conversation with him.

As someone who struggles with anxiety, doing something like this is nerve wracking. My heart rate goes up and I fidget quite a bit. For me, looking at someone and smiling at them was a huge step outside my comfort zone. However, the more that I did it, the friendlier others were to me and the more connected I felt to them. Over time we would talk more. It doesn’t take much to brighten someone’s day. Begin by taking small steps forward and if bigger opportunities present themselves then go for it.