We often spend much time looking or searching for joy when it really is within our reach; we simply need to give it away. What could be better to give or receive than joy?

Mark Twain says it best:

“To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.”

I find the most joy in my life comes from freely giving to others. It could be something as simple as a smile or saying, “Thank you.” There is so much destruction, pain, and evil in this world that simple acts that spark joy in others can go a long way.

Are you stuck on some ideas? Here are 10 ways to share joy with others.

1. Speak kindness through compliments.

When was the last time you received a genuine compliment? When was the last time that compliment was from a stranger? Compliments are powerful! Make an effort to give true, genuine compliments to people you come in contact with.

2. Give stuff away.

Why keep things you don’t use or need? There are so many people in need in today’s world. Maybe list good quality items on Facebook or Craigslist to sell, but then give them away for free? Donating items to local shelters is a great way to give things away as well.

3. Thank somebody.

Anyone come to mind that you have not thanked in awhile or ever? Thank someone who maybe does thankless jobs in your life to show appreciation for the work they do.

4. Send “just because” texts.

Think of those people in your life you love and appreciate, then send them a text to say that. It can be something very simple!

5. Volunteer.

What do you love? Maybe it’s dogs; you could volunteer at a local animal shelter one day a week. Find something you enjoy and go for it!

6. Over-tip a waiter.

Start a collection or fund for tipping at restaurants; maybe get your friends or family involved too. Can you imagine the joy on the server’s face?

7. Send letters of appreciation.

Who can you send a note to this month? Handwritten notes are a great way to make people feel valued, especially if you don’t usually send them.

8. Buy a stranger’s groceries.

Maybe you see a young mom with 4 kids, or maybe you talk with a stranger who tells you they have a family member who has cancer. Why not pay for their groceries?

9. Fundraise for a friend in need.

Do you know a friend who is adopting a child? Do you know a friend who volunteers at an organization that does well for the community? Start a fundraiser and give all proceeds to those friends.

10. Spend time with someone.

When was the last time you spent a whole day with just you and your son or daughter? Show your kids, family, and friends how much they mean to you by spending time with them doing something they love!

I challenge you to think about more ways that you can spark joy in those you work with, your family, and strangers you come in contact with every day. Comment below! I would love to hear your ideas and stories.

Do you want to learn more on the topic of joy? Check out our book series that challenges readers to make their lives and workspaces JoyPowered^®.