Simple Words Can Make a Big Difference in Another Person's Life

How to help someone break a dismal state of mind

Jill Reid

Mar 24, 2022

Available for iOS and Android

back view of two girls wearing denim jackets with flowers in their hair and arms around each other's waist

Hope you’re having a great day!

Hope all is well with you!

Hope you’re feeling fine and walking the line!

Hope happiness and joy find you every day!

How often do you hear — or use — these types of statements?

Frankly, I’m beginning to worry why everyone is so damn hopeful that I’m doing well, feeling good, enjoying life, or being happy. Was I giving off some kind of distress signal that my life is crappy?

It occurred to me that maybe I should step back and consider that, possibly, those cheerful statements are nothing more than common courtesies offered by others as a means of vocal connection. Because it seems there’s very little touching, hugging, or physical interchange going on between most folks these days.

Personally, I think most of us can use a little support from others who are kind enough to offer a degree of optimistic recognition — a verbal sign we’re not invisible, and there are people out there who care enough to share a few words.

Then I began to wonder about a different possibility.

Could it be that those who offer uplifting statements are looking for respite in another person’s happy, fulfilling life?

Maybe reaching out with words was an effort to connect with someone else’s positive mindset — a desperate attempt to find relief or solutions to their problems. And by speaking out to others, they were hoping to lay the groundwork for an inspiring dialogue — because their own lives are in the dumper, and they need encouraging input from another human to pull them out of an emotional hole.

Simple words can make a huge difference in another person’s life.

I began to realize there are certain phrases and questions that have the power to impact or influence someone’s life in a positive way.

Even a simple, “Hello, how are you?” has the ability to break a dismal state of mind. This easy, neutral question can be enough to open the door and invite others to share a bit about their life — like a small shoehorn wedging a sliver of space between two or more people in a warm, friendly manner.

Here’s an idea to try the next time you sense someone may be in need of support, encouragement, or a lift in spirits.

Offer a positive statement, followed by a genuinely caring question:

“Hi there, it’s great to see you! By the way, you look wonderful. What have you been doing to stay so healthy?”

“I’m so glad we ran into each other. I’ve been wondering how you’re doing and can’t wait to hear about your new job, recent vacation, plans for your home renovation, etc. Do you have a few minutes to talk about what’s going on in your life?”

Yes, we’re all hopeful — for both others and ourselves.

Fortunately, we can express our interest and enthusiasm by being receptive to another person’s gesture, and brave enough to engage verbally with others. Because it’s just possible there’s someone in need on either side of the exchange.

Which, by the way, there always is.

In health & happiness,

Jill Reid

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Jill Reid is the author of Real Life, Discover Your Personal Truth, Life in Small Doses, and Please God, Make Me A Writer. Her books, videos, and newsletter explore life, relationships, self-improvement, health, and personal success strategies for working through the challenges of everyday life.