50 Beautiful Ways to Make Someone Smile (Or Happy)

a featured image for a blog post about ways to make someone smile

Table of Contents

50 ways to make someone happy: Simple and heartwarming ideas

In this blog post, we’re going to explore 50 simple ways to make someone smile.

Making someone smile is a wonderful gift that costs nothing but means everything.

In a world that can often be busy and stressful, bringing a smile to someone’s face can brighten their day and create a ripple of positivity that extends far and wide.

We all have the power to create these small moments of happiness.

These ideas are easy, thoughtful, and perfect for anyone, whether it’s a friend, a family member, a co-worker, or even a stranger.

You don’t need grand gestures or elaborate plans; sometimes, it’s the simplest acts of kindness that have the most significant impact.

From kind words to unique surprises, we’ll cover a wide range of strategies that you can easily incorporate into your daily life.

a pin that says in a large font ways to make someone smile

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you click on a link and purchase something I recommend, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

1. Compliment their outfit

When you see your friend or someone you care about wearing something nice, just tell them!

It could be as easy as saying, “Hey, you look great in that outfit!” This makes them feel good and appreciated.

2. Send a handwritten letter or card

Write a heartfelt letter or a card to let someone know how much they mean to you. Tell them about the things you love about them or share a special memory.

Handwritten letters are super personal and show you put thought and effort into making them smile.

3. Cook their favorite meal

Cook up a meal you know they love and invite them over or deliver it to their place. It’s a tasty way to make them happy. Food has a special way of bringing smiles.

4. Plan a surprise picnic

A picnic in a park or even your backyard can be such a delightful surprise. Pack some sandwiches, snacks, and maybe even their favorite dessert.

They’ll be thrilled by your thoughtfulness and the outdoor adventure.

5. Offer to babysit for a friend

If you know a friend needs a break, offering to watch their kids for a while can be a huge help. It gives them time to relax and recharge.

They’ll be thankful for your support and enjoy some kid-free time.

6. Give a heartfelt, unexpected hug

Sometimes, all it takes is a warm, sincere hug to bring a smile to someone’s face. Hugs convey love and care without words. Just give them a tight, comforting hug when they least expect it.

7. Share a funny meme or GIF

We all love a good laugh! Send them a funny meme or GIF that you think will tickle their funny bone. Laughter is a sure way to put a smile on their face.

8. Send a bouquet of wildflowers

You don’t always need fancy roses. Wildflowers are just as lovely, and they often come with a more natural, colorful charm. Send them a bunch to brighten up their day.

a happy person

9. Leave an encouraging note on their mirror

Stick a sweet note on their bathroom mirror so they see it when they wake up. It’s a small gesture that can start their day with a smile and boost their confidence.

10. Share a funny childhood story

Think of a funny story from your childhood or theirs and share it. It’s a simple way to bond, reminisce, and bring back fond memories, which often lead to smiles and laughter.

You might also like: Amazing ways to contribute to the world peace this year

11. Create a personalized playlist

Make a playlist of songs you think they’ll enjoy. It’s like sharing a piece of your favorite music with them. Music can be a wonderful way to connect and lift spirits.

12. Offer to be their workout buddy

If they’ve been thinking about getting fit, offer to exercise together. It’s a great way to motivate each other and share some quality time while staying healthy.

13. Leave a kind message on their car windshield

This is among the cutest ways to make someone smile. Write a nice note and leave it on their car. It’s like a little surprise waiting for them after work or a shopping trip.

It shows you’re thinking about them even when they’re not around.

14. Write a short, uplifting poem

If you enjoy writing, compose a short poem with a positive message.

It doesn’t have to be a masterpiece; it can be just heartfelt and encouraging. It’s a unique and thoughtful way to make them smile.

15. Give a small, thoughtful gift

You don’t need a special occasion to give a gift to make someone smile.

It could be something as simple as their favorite snack, a book you think they’d like, or a small trinket that holds meaning for both of you. Small surprises can bring big smiles.

16. Make a homemade dessert

Baking a delicious treat like cookies or a cake and sharing it with them is a surefire way to make them happy. Homemade goodies have a special charm that store-bought treats can’t beat.

17. Share a sunset or sunrise view

If you’re lucky to catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset, take a picture and send it to them with a message like, “Wish you were here to enjoy this view with me.”

It’s a reminder of the beauty in the world and the bond you share.

two smiling people

18. Help them with a task or errand

Offer to help with something they’ve been putting off, like grocery shopping, cleaning, or fixing something. It eases their load and shows you care about their well-being.

19. Offer to take their pet for a walk

If they have a furry friend, offer to take their dog for a walk. They’ll appreciate the help with their pet.

20. Organize a surprise virtual game night

Plan a virtual game night with friends or family. Pick games everyone enjoys, like charades or trivia. It’s a fun way to bond and create shared memories, even from a distance.

You might also like: The best ways to help other people in your life

21. Recreate a cherished childhood memory

If you know of a special memory from their childhood, try to recreate it. Whether it’s playing a favorite game or visiting a place they loved, it’ll be a heartwarming surprise.

22. Send a postcard from a local landmark

If you’re traveling or even if there’s a famous spot in your town, send a postcard from there. It’s a unique way to show you’re thinking of them and share a piece of the world with them.

23. Create a scavenger hunt for them

Plan a scavenger hunt with clues leading to small surprises or even a bigger gift at the end. It’s like a fun adventure designed just for them.

24. Share a funny pet video

Cute and funny pet videos are all over the internet. Find one that matches their sense of humor and share it with them. It’s almost guaranteed to bring a smile to their face.

25. Surprise them with breakfast in bed

If you’re staying with someone or visiting, sneak into the kitchen and prepare breakfast for them. Serving it in bed is an extra touch of luxury that’s sure to make them feel special.

26. Plan a surprise movie night

Set up a cozy movie night at home with their favorite films, popcorn, and snacks. It’s a simple but lovely way to enjoy quality time together.

27. Offer to be their designated driver

If they have an event, party, or doctor’s appointment, offer to be their driver. It’s a kind gesture that shows you care about their safety and well-being.

28. Leave an anonymous act of kindness

Do something nice for someone without revealing your identity. It could be paying for their coffee or leaving a surprise treat on their desk. It adds an element of intrigue and warmth to their day.

If this isn’t among the best ways to make someone smile, then I don’t know what is.

29. Share a list of reasons you appreciate them

Make a list of all the things you appreciate about them and share it. It’s a heartfelt way to express your gratitude and make them feel loved.

30. Draw a silly caricature of them

Even if you’re not an artist, give drawing a try and create a funny caricature of your friend. It’s all in good fun and shows you don’t take yourself too seriously.

You might also like: Practical ways to make your life interesting and fun this year

31. Plan a day of exploring a new hobby

If you’ve discovered a new hobby or interest, invite them to try it with you. It’s a fun way to bond over shared experiences and learn something new together.

32. Offer to help them clean or organize

Sometimes, we all need a bit of help tidying up. Offer to help them with cleaning or organizing a space in their home. A clean and organized environment can be uplifting.

33. Share a book or movie recommendation

If you’ve come across a great book or movie, let them know about it. It’s a simple way to share something you love and maybe even discuss it together.

34. Create a personalized crossword puzzle

Craft a crossword puzzle with clues related to their life, inside jokes, or shared memories. It’s a creative and unique way to engage them and bring smiles.

a smiling person

35. Plan a surprise adventure day

To make someone smile, you can organize a day filled with fun surprises and activities, like visiting a zoo, taking a scenic hike, or exploring a nearby town. It’s a whole day of excitement.

36. Share a virtual tour of an interesting place

Find a virtual tour of a famous museum, landmark, or city online and enjoy it together via video call. It’s like a little virtual getaway without leaving home.

37. Leave a bouquet of balloons at their doorstep

Surprise them with a bunch of colorful balloons tied to their doorknob. It’s a cheerful and unexpected sight to come home to.

38. Set up a surprise photoshoot

Plan a surprise photo shoot in a favorite location or setting. Capture some fun, candid moments, or stylish portraits. It’s a memorable way to create lasting memories.

39. Share a fun riddle or brain teaser

Send them a riddle or brain teaser to solve. It’s an entertaining and engaging way to stimulate their mind and bring out their problem-solving skills.

40. Offer to be their accountability partner

If they’re working on a personal goal, like exercising or studying, offer to be their accountability partner. You can both encourage each other to stay on track.

You might also like: Discover how to truly be a better friend this year

41. Create a custom piece of artwork

Make a simple painting, drawing, or craft that reflects your friend’s interests or something you’ve shared. Handmade art carries a personal touch that can be treasured.

This is also among my favorite ways to make someone smile because art is known to bind people.

42. Share a random fun fact

Random facts can be fascinating and bring out smiles. Find an interesting fact and share it with them. It’s a conversation starter and a little dose of knowledge.

43. Plan a themed dinner or party

Organize a dinner or a party with a fun theme, like a Hawaiian luau or a retro ’80s night. Dress up, decorate, and enjoy a night of laughter and good food.

44. Offer to teach them a new skill

If you’re good at something they want to learn, offer to teach them. Whether it’s a musical instrument, a sport, or a craft, it’s a good way to bond and help them grow.

a pin that says in a large font ways to make someone smile
a pin that says in a large font how to make someone smile

45. Share a lighthearted joke

Find a clean, funny joke and share it with them. Laughter is the quickest way to make someone smile. Besides, jokes create a cheerful atmosphere.

46. Leave a message on their voicemail

Call and leave a cheerful message when you know they won’t answer. You can say something like, “I just wanted to hear your voice and say hi!” It’s a nice surprise when they check their messages.

47. Offer to be their personal chef for a day

If you enjoy cooking, plan a day where you’ll cook all their favorite meals. It’s like having a personal chef, and it’ll be a tasty treat for them.

48. Share a playlist of feel-good songs

If you want to make someone smile, create a playlist filled with songs that make you feel happy and share it with them.

Music has a magical way of lifting spirits, and they’ll appreciate your effort to curate happiness.

49. Plan a surprise day at the beach

If there’s a beach nearby, plan a surprise trip. Pack a picnic, bring beach games, and enjoy a relaxing day by the water. It’s a special way to unwind and bond.

50. Write a short, heartfelt letter expressing your love and appreciation

Write a letter that tells them how much they mean to you. It’s a powerful way to convey your feelings and make them feel truly loved and valued.

You might also like: Incredibly powerful affirmations for better friendships

What are your favorite ways to make someone smile?

You Might Also Like

Leave a Reply