Taste Life Blog

Getting the mail is the highlight of my day. I love receiving handwritten cards and notes. I received this card a few days ago and have it proudly displayed on what I call my “Chere shrine,” the kitchen sink window sill where I place my current treasures. It absolutely made my day. (The “Chere shrine” drives Gary nuts as stuff constantly falls into the kitchen sink.)

Serotonin happiness booster

WOW! What an A++ serotonin happiness booster. The letter was priceless and made my day.

Serotonin is a chemical in your brain that is related to feeling good. When you are depressed, or sad, you often have low levels of serotonin. Research has shown that when you are on the “receiving end of goodness” your serotonin levels actually rise. However the better news is that when you deliver your “goodness gift of YOU,” your serotonin levels also rise almost equally. When you increase your serotonin levels you lower your stress levels and increase your inner peace and joy.

An easy way to boost your serotonin is to express your appreciation to others. You can actually tell them what you value about them, or what you were grateful for or how you appreciated something they did for you.  Can you think of a richer holiday gift than the gift of a thank you note expressing your sincere appreciation? Priceless!

 What if you had a goal to brighten one person’s day every day?

I remember when I turned 35 I created the goal to tell three people each day something nice. I remember about ten years ago telling an older gentleman at a Minnesota Coaches Meeting I liked his hair. He still talks about that. I love to grocery shop. I often tell the produce guys their section looks beautiful. I say thank you to at least one person in the grocery store every time I shop. I often just say, “Thank you for being so nice.” Many are shocked that I thank them. I notice smiles. And I say thank you for smiling.  But wouldn’t you want to be thanked.  When I go to people’s houses (even when I don’t know them that well), I leave little notes or sweets under their pillows. One mom about died that I went into her kids messy rooms and put stuff under their pillows. The next time I was going to visit she made her kids clean their rooms (I felt bad!). Guess I better always take treats when I visit from now on.

 The best serotonin booster

My best serotonin booster is to speak to the boss. Last week, Bethany Fischer at Best Buy helped me look for a new TV.  Have you bought a TV lately?  It is like learning a foreign language and Bethany made it crystal clear. I was so delighted I asked to speak to her boss to give her a raise. The store manager was happy. Bethany was happier. I went to see Dr. Jane Lisko, a new dermatologist last week. Gary asked, “Did you ask to talk to her boss to give her a raise? ‘We laughed and thought she is probably the boss. I probably ask to speak to at least one boss a week.  My family has gotten used to waiting and it does take time but boy does it feel good. Free happiness!

As we get ready to start a brand new year, think about how you can show your appreciation for others. Imagine the positivity you can create if you appreciate just one person per day. Imagine how much positivity THEY would create if they too would appreciate one person per day.

This holiday season share the present of your presence and appreciation for others. At the same time, you will boost your serotonin levels and have the most joyful holiday season of your life.

Better get busy! And remember I am blessed and in gratitude for each of you Taste Life subscribers. Post your ideas on how you show appreciation for others. The winner will receive Savor Your Life Greeting Cards.

Love,