5 Simple Ways to Encourage Your Friends

Life can be busy, and it’s easy to get caught up in our own routines. But… taking the time to encourage a friend can make all the difference. I have a little piece of artwork in my laundry room that says, “One kind word can change someone’s entire day!” Small gestures can have a big impact. I love the Maya Angelou quote: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel!” So good and so true. With that in mind, here are five simple ways to lift up your friends and spread kindness in your community.

Write a Handwritten Letter

In a world full of digital communication, a handwritten letter is a rare and thoughtful gift. I bet you have a box or drawer that contains letters and cards you’ve received from family and friends. And- I bet you’ve kept them because they were so touching! Taking the time to write a heartfelt note shows your friend that they matter to you. Whether it’s a quick thank-you, a letter of encouragement, or a simple “thinking of you” card, this personal touch can brighten their day and serve as a keepsake they cherish. I’ve received several hand-written letters recently and I’m so grateful for each one. One of my first blog posts was about the lost art of hand- written letters! My favorite notecards can be found here. Writing letters is a discipline for sure, but totally worth it!!

Show Up Even When They Don’t Ask

Sometimes, the best way to encourage a friend is just to be there. One of the harder seasons in my life was when my husband moved to Colorado 6 months before our youngest daughter and I did. She was a senior in high school, so it didn’t make sense for us to pick up and move when she only had a few months of high school left. Goodness that was a hard time…I still remember Scott driving off and I was just sobbing. I was a hot mess!

My dear friend Amy offered to leave her family for the weekend and come and spend the night. My friend Sunny just showed up at my house. When I had unexpected surgery here in Denver, my sweet friend Liz showed up at the hospital with the coziest jammies and a little gift basket. Then good friends drove an hour to visit with food, flowers and magazines. I’m sure you can recount how a friend “just” showing up in your life made you feel!! Whether a friend is going through a challenging time or simply feeling overwhelmed, showing up—without being asked—lets them know they’re not alone. It could be as simple as bringing them a coffee, offering to help with errands, or just sitting with them in silence. Your presence speaks volumes.

Bring a Meal Just Because

You don’t have to wait for a crisis to bring someone a meal. A homemade dish or even takeout from their favorite restaurant can be a beautiful act of kindness. It’s an easy way to lighten their load and let them know you care. As I mentioned, my husband moved to Colorado six months before I did. His idea of a home-cooked meal is a can of beans or soup warmed up in a pot, and I’m not kidding! One of his coworkers brought him too many meals to count. Scott and I are both so very grateful for Andrea! My favorite soup recipe, chicken enchilada soup, makes 20+ cups! It’s the perfect meal to take to a friend. If you happen to have extra disposable plates/bowls, napkins and silverware- include them. That way your friend doesn’t have dishes to do!

Share Baked Goods with a Neighbor

If you’re baking for your family, why not put some on a paper plate and bless someone else? Dropping off a plate of cookies or homemade bread to a friend or neighbor is a simple way to spread joy. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a small, unexpected treat to let them know they’re appreciated. I have been shocked to see how meaningful this is to the recipient!! I used to make chocolate chip cookies a bunch in Texas and would take them to friends and they loved the treat. This super easy brownie recipe is also a crowd pleaser. I don’t bake as much since we are empty nesters, but still share with friends and neighbors when I do.

Reach Out When God Puts Someone on Your Heart

Have you ever thought about a friend out of the blue? That might be God prompting you to reach out. Don’t ignore it—send a text, make a quick call, or pray for them right away. You never know what they might be going through, and your message could be exactly what they need in that moment.

This is something God has really impressed on my heart and I have to tell you- it will not only bless the person you are prompted to pray for- it will bless you when you follow through!!! Just last week I was driving and thought- I need to check in with my mom. But then I felt God clearly telling me to call a friend. When I called she told me that she and her mom were on the way to her aunt’s house who just got results of her biopsy. She said – “Will you please pray for us!?” How amazing that God would use us to bless other people!

Encouragement Starts with Small Acts of Love

Encouraging your friends doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, intentional acts of kindness can make a lasting impact. Whether it’s a handwritten letter, a home-cooked meal, or a simple text, every effort to show love matters.

What are some ways you like to encourage your friends? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Grateful for you,

Julie

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