Each of us passes through our days with little thought. We get wrapped up in our own lives; our work, family, finances, tasks, health, etc. If each of us would take a few moments to look outside ourselves and practice these simple little words, imagine how wonderful life could be.

I am going to get started right now. How about you?

• Hello-How often do you sit or stand silently next to someone in a waiting room or in an elevator? How often do you stand line at the post office or bank with your eyes facing forward? Just saying a simple “Hello” or “Hi” to the person next to you coupled with a smile, could give you (and the recipient) an instant mood-boost. I know for me, the conversation that sometimes follows is great to pass the time for impatient folk like me!
  
• Thank you-I do not think one can say “thank you” too often. For me, I know I need to say thank you more often to those employees and nurses who assist me every day. Do not make the mistake of taking one for granted. Even if someone is performing a service or task that they should do by the nature of their job, thanking them will make both of you feel good. The service industry doesn’t hear thank you enough anymore. Remember the girl at the checkout when she bags your groceries for you. Say thank you to the waiter or waitress who brings your salad with the dressing on the side, just like you like it. These two small words of gratitude can mean a lot.
  
• Please-Adding a little “please” can go a long way. Don’t demand, ask and add a little please on the end for good measure. It makes one much happier to oblige. When you queue up for a coffee at Starbucks, don’t just bark your order at the barista – add a “please” and make it a request. Say please at home too. It doesn’t just set a great example for your kids, it sets a tone of mutual respect.
  
• I am sorry-In your new commitment to look outside yourself, remember to always offer up an apology when appropriate. Holding a grudge does nothing but eat at you. If you make a mistake, admit it and offer up your apologies. Make a commitment to not repeat your mistake.
  
• Let me help you with that.-I am a bit door holder. I hold doors in and out of the clinics I go to each day. I am on the elevators a lot and hold doors for folks there regularly. I am amazed at how many others do not. If you see someone struggling, offer to help. Most people will be touched and truly grateful. Your help will likely add a smile to their face and yours. Besides holding the doors, you might offer to help someone who is lifting or carrying things that are heavy or cumbersome, having difficulties reading a notice, someone who can’t find their way in a busy clinic or office complex. A few moments of work on your part can bring a dash of joy to each of you and they might just reciprocate in the future.
  
• Have a great day!-Although phrases like “have a nice day” can be overused by sales persons the key is to use the phrase with a smile and genuine enthusiasm. Your day is the one that will likely be great! It is a great way to end a conversation or a meeting on a high note.
  
• I love you-Lastly, those three little words; I love you. Do you remember to say I love you to those around you? Do you tell them daily? Do you remember to tell you children, your parents, your grandma? It is very easy to assume that people “just know” we love them, but sometimes hearing those little words can really make someone’s day. My adult children have reminded me that just because they are adults does not mean that they do not want to hear how much I love them.
  

What phrases do you think we should say more often? What do you make an effort to say in order to bring a smile to someone’s face?

Tagged as: help, please, sorry, thank you, words to live by