Make the Most of Your Day: Life Is Short—Tell Someone What You Admire About Them

Most people go through life not knowing how deeply they’ve impacted others. We think kind things, feel inspired, appreciate who they are—but we don’t say it. And then, one day, the chance is gone.

If you want to make the most of your day, pick someone—anyone—and tell them something honest you admire about them. It might feel small to you. But to them, it might be unforgettable.

1. Admiration unspoken is a gift never given.

William James, the father of American psychology, wrote:

“The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.”

~William James

You can meet that need for someone today. A simple sentence can make a big difference.

2. Words live longer than we think.

Fred Rogers, the voice of gentleness, once said:

“If you could only sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet… there is something of yourself that you leave at every meeting with another person.”

~Fred Rogers

Let someone know they’ve left something good with you. Don’t wait.

3. It’s not flattery—it’s truth that heals.

Thich Nhat Hanh, Buddhist monk and peacemaker, wrote:

“When you love someone, the best thing you can offer is your presence. How can you love if you are not there?”

~Thich Nhat Hanh

Presence includes words. Real words. Truthful words. Speak what you feel.

4. Giving compliments costs nothing and creates joy.

Mark Twain, with his usual wit, said:

“I can live for two months on a good compliment.”

~Mark Twain

One sentence of genuine admiration could be the brightest part of someone’s week—or their year.

5. Don’t let the good go unsaid.

Maya Angelou, who knew the power of words, wrote:

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

~Maya Angelou

Today, make someone feel seen, valued, respected. It only takes a few words—but those words might echo for years.

A Final Reflection

Think of someone. A friend. A sibling. A coworker. A neighbor. Someone who’s strong. Kind. Honest. Brave. Say it. Send the message. Speak the truth. Because life is short—and admiration is a beautiful thing to give while you still can.