Everyone knows what it feels like to be sad. Things happen in life, and sometimes it is completely out of our control. These events may cause distress or unhappiness. It's perfectly normal.
Does everyone know what it feels like to be happy? At some stage in our life, we have all experienced joy or pleasure in whatever shape or form. This feeling can stem from entertainment, accomplishment or being content. This is also quite normal.
Making someone else happy is one of the most selfless acts there is, and can be highly rewarding. What's even better is that it can become contagious. Putting a smile on a person's face can have the same effect on you, as it does for them. Let's now discuss how to cheer people up when they are feeling down.
Identify the source of unhappiness
Before you do anything, you want to find out why a person is feeling sad. It could be something someone said, or a poor decision they made. Maybe they know someone who is sick or has passed away. What's important is that you clearly identify the source of this sadness.
If it's a family or friend, you can talk to them and ask them up front how they are holding up. If you are very close with this person you may be able to figure it out. You could ask family or friends if they know, and not in a gossiping manner but rather with a caring approach. If this person is not a family or friend, it is difficult to know why they are sad. It's not always necessary to know why, but it does help.
Do something nice for them
Each situation will be different, but there is always something you can do to help. If you have identified the source of their unhappiness, it will be easy to come up with a fitting gesture. Try to approach them in a friendly manner, or even crack a joke if you see it as appropriate. It has to be said, the sadder the person is, the more sensitive you will have to be in your approach. It is therefore a matter of using your common sense.
To help you understand, I will give 3 examples.
1. You're a student and see a fellow pupil who you don't know too well looking sad, or perhaps a teacher is distressed. You may not know why, but it's easy to help. Say hello to them in the corridor and ask them how they are. Or even hold the door open for them.
2. Your best friend's mum is in hospital. It's clear to identify the source of sadness, in this case you need to be sensitive and caring. Spend time with your friend, make the effort to visit them as often as you see fit to see how they are. Offer to take them out for lunch, or watch a movie. Taking their mind off the situation can help but it really does depend on the matter.
3. Your little brother/sister gets awfully quiet and stays in their room for long periods of time, refusing to speak to anyone. I suggest you first ask them in a casual way if they are okay, and if it is a rather small matter they may explain. If it's more emotional they might pretend that they are okay. In either case, a kind gesture should be easily thought of. What interests your brother/sister, and do they have any hobbies? Spend time doing the activities that they enjoy, with them. Treat them to their favourite meal, or take them for an ice cream. You should know what entertains them.
A kind gesture can go a long way
Make the effort to cheer someone up. Most of the time you would want someone to do the same for you. Put your feet in their shoes, and you will find that it's relatively easy to help them out. And of course, always be sure to smile!
http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Make-Sad-People-Happy&id=9399773
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