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I am in my local supermarket, and I park my shopping trolley in the aisle where it won’t get in anyone’s way. Then, I kneel down to pick up some dog treats. (Don’t laugh – our dog is very particular about her treats).

Out of the corner of my eye, I see my trolley start to move. Curious and a little irritated, I look up to see what is going on. Instantly, I find myself looking at a close friend who has decided to have a little fun at my expense.

Then, to his cry of ‘Got you!’, we burst into laughter and give each other a hug (we haven’t seen each other since the weekend). And, when his wife joins us, we swap stories and laugh and hug in the aisle.

Take it step-by-step

Presently, I notice people looking at us and smiling. With his little prank, my friend has created a bright spark in a rather grey world and lifted everyone’s spirits. I suspect the supermarket hasn’t seen hugs and laughter like that for quite a while.

This small act has brought joy and inspiration to the aisles. I am grateful to my friend for the timely reminder that it takes only a tiny step to make a difference and add meaning to your life and the lives of others.

Indeed, change is all about taking it step-by-step. So, whilst you are considering and planning how to make a meaningful difference in a big way, think about building up to it step-by-step in small ways.