People Are Sharing The Most Underrated Thoughtful Gestures (40 Answers)

Take candid pictures of a mother with her children.

Or frankly ANYONE with their children..or grandchildren..or friends.. doing something other than posing in front of a fireplace at Christmas. You really have no idea how much I treasure the rare glimpses of me interacting with my kids when smiles aren't forced. Take them, send them, they want them. You don't have to ask..just.. do it. (So long as you, ya know.. know them and what not).

When someone holds the elevator doors open when you're just a few seconds away.

I'm really glad you asked because earlier one of my friends who I hadn't talked to in a while expressed that they felt really comfortable with me, and came out as possibly trans (they are still figuring out exactly what their identity is, and had only told one person besides me) and told me how much they valued me as a friend. I actually came very close to crying because I was so moved by it. Tell your friends what they mean to you, it is incredibly powerful.

Just a thank you wave or flash from a driver who you let go in front of you or before you. Just a small thing that makes me feel good.

Asking if a person got home okay.

Carrying groceries, bags or heavy items for an older person or family member.

I try to have water bottles or soda every time I have workmen over to my house or furniture/appliance delivery guys. They work hard and I'm usually pretty late into their delivery day so I figure a little treat is appreciated (on top of a tip . . . I'm not a monster)

I don't know if this counts, but if I ever see a car parked at an expired meter, and if I have a spare coin, I throw it in.

Holding the door open for someone.

Someone deliberately taking their time to get on a bus you're running for.

Saying “Wait, I don’t get what you mean. Can you repeat that?”

It does NOT signify to the other person that you weren’t listening. In fact, it actually signifies that you care enough about understanding that you’ll listen twice.

Non expensive flowers for occasions. I'm talking 10$ daisy arrangement for your coworkers last day, or just because to a friend, I always bring wine and flowers as a host/hostess gift. There are so many cool flowers (not just roses!!)

And it can be for a male or female. The kings in your life deserve flowers as much as grandma. Tell him those sunflowers reminded you of his smile, tell bertha from accounting you appreciate the prompt Thursday afternoon checks. Tell Gamgam she's your favorite and leave a little sunshine in your wake.

Remembering someone's name goes a long way.

When someone lets you into a lane. Thanks for not being a jerk!!

Engaged listening without interrupting.

Sending a meme to a friend that you know they'd enjoy.

Taking your bag of the seat on the bus/train if others are looking for a place to sit.

Buy someone their favorite food item. My mom will specifically buy me new pears. It’s awesome because you see they like something, you remember they like something, and you put effort into getting them that something. For two-three bucks you can make a very thoughtful gesture.

Remembering sweet little things like how someone likes their coffee.

After I hang out with my girlfriend, she'll often text me something like "Thanks for having me over today :)" and it'll make me feel really good because it's a reminder that we're doing this because we like being together and not just because it's convenient or routine or whatever.

Giving a compliment. E.g. you look nice today.