I don't think we say hello enough.

I really noticed this when I took a trip to Guatemala in July 2014 to help build schools for some kids in communities that didn't have much.

What stood out was how friendly everyone was to each other.

In the morning, I'd be walking to breakfast with the other volunteers and everyone I passed on the street would say "buenos dias" which means "good morning."

And they would look at you in the eye and smile while saying this.

I couldn't help but smile and say "buenos dias" right back at them.

When I returned to Denver, I noticed that we rarely do this.

Most of the people I pass on the street do not say hello, or look at you.

Even in the hallways of my apartment complex, almost everyone I pass is either looking down on their phone, or looking straight ahead, trying NOT to make eye contact.

And they usually aren't smiling either. :(

From someone who has spent some time in Guatemala where everyone seems friendly, one little hello can go a long way.

Believe me.

If someone says hello to you and smiles, it will instantly make you feel good.

If you do it to someone else, you will instantly make them feel good.

But don't wait until someone else says hello to you.

Take the lead, and start to say hello to everyone you pass.

I can guarantee your day will be better because of it.