How to Make Someone Happy

If you want to make yourself happy, trying making someone else happy. There's nothing quite as rewarding as seeing a parent, friend, child or complete stranger laugh and smile. Here are some simple ways to cheer someone up or brighten their day.

Their Step:

1.  
   Give a heartfelt "thank you" to someone who deserves it. Whether it's a parent, teacher or friend, they may feel taken for granted if they do so much for you without any recognition. Offering a hug, card or even just saying the words will make them feel appreciated.

2.  
   Spend time together. Carving time out of your schedule to give your friends or kids some undivided attention will make them feel special, especially if you're usually busy with school, work or jobs around the house.
3.  
   Remember the little things. Let your girlfriend know that you're thinking of her with a quick email or tell a co-worker they're doing an awesome job by buying their morning coffee. Send friends cards to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and the anniversary of the day you first met-they'll be thrilled that you remembered.
4.  
   Make them laugh. It sounds simple, but eliciting a smile with self-deprecating sense of humor, a goofy pratfall, silly song or a one-liner you heard on television can turn someone's bad mood around. Be an upbeat, positive person to be around.
5.  
   Listen intently and ask open-ended questions when someone's talking about their interests, goals or other passions. It's a joy when a person is truly supportive of you and fascinated by your interests.

6.  
   Uphold your end of the bargain, whether it's doing your chores without your mom telling you to, completing your part of a project when working as a group or remembering to pick something up on the way home from work. You'll make people happy if you're dependable and make their lives less stressful