Make someone's day with some of these kind gestures

MyTreat is an initiative started by food writer Annette Tan and PR professional Lyla Lin (who's also at the forefront of the #Savefnbsg movement). The premise is simple – treat someone to a meal from one of the participating restaurants and get it delivered to their doorstep. Not only are you doing some good by brightening up someone's day in these tough times, you're also supporting the F&B industry, which is facing unprecedented challenges with the new restrictions and rules. 

After getting your food, both the sender and receiver can follow up by spreading vibes and filling up the Instagram Story template.

You don't need an occasion to send someone flowers. And during this period when everyone is staying home, receiving blooms to brighten up a room is a nice surprise. Check out our list of recommended florists in Singapore who deliver personalised bouquets – remember to include a note, and thank your delivery person as well.

While almost everything can be done online now, including Zoom or Houseparty calls with friends, a lot of socialising has lost the personal element. Get a little old school and spend some time writing a letter or a card to show someone you're thinking of them. Have a friend living overseas who is also affected by the current situation? Make having a penpal cool again and send them some love too. Long live snail mail.

Most of us have been staying home to do our part in flattening the curve but there are still a lot of frontline staff working every day to make sure patients are being treated, people can still buy essentials, public transport is still in operation, food is being delivered to homes and more. Spare a thought for them and send them a message of encouragement or appreciation for their efforts through cheerforthem.sg.

Pick an industry you want to thank and then take some time to make a simple artwork and message for them. This will then be delivered (with a balloon) to the different hospitals, clinics and supermarkets for free when 'circuit breaker' measures are relaxed.

More than just family and loved ones, you can also brighten up the day of someone you don't even know. There are many vulnerable segments in the community struggling in these tough times. From migrant workers to the elderly, there are plenty of communities that need our help. We've compiled a list of some causes, charities and organisations you can start with.  

Hi you, thanks for wanting to find out how to make someone else smile. We hope that in doing some good for others, you feel better too. Remember to be kind to yourself – it's okay to not feel okay sometimes, especially now where we're all just trying to get by. If you've had a particularly unproductive day, shake it off and try to do better tomorrow. Need someone to talk to? The Samaritans of Singapore runs various helplines that provide emotional support. You can also reach out to the 24-hour National Care Hotline on 6202 6868.