Everybody desires a safe sanctuary. However, having really experienced one increases your desire for and desire to create one.

I had the good fortune to grow up in my grandparents’ safe refuge. (Don’t grandparents make the best grandparents?)

I never noticed, but my grandparents must have been overworked raising seven kids and taking care of aged parents. Their house was full of people and love.

Everyone was made to feel welcome by my grandmother’s warm smile and sincere concern. What really counted were her kindness and concern for other people.

The fact that her house lacked the newest, matching furniture made no difference. That her table was devoid of fine dining fare was inconsequential. The fact that her house wasn’t perfect didn’t matter.

Making the most out of what she had was important.

It was never the furniture or possessions that drew our attention when we entered her house. My grandmother’s laugh, grin, kind greeting, and inquiries about your life were what made you feel important, loved, and right at home right away.

Her top priority was people. Furthermore, guests were the priority—not housekeeping—whenever they were in her home, which was frequently.

The temptation to become engrossed in the details of havens can be strong for those who create them. Does my sofa have enough comfort? Does the food in my cupboard look the tastiest to you? How clean does my house appear?

A gorgeous residence is set up by those features. So let’s all take a cue from my grandmother to establish a safe haven:

1. Smile. And give a big smile.
Although it costs you nothing, a grin can make someone else’s day and set the mood.

2. Make sure you greet each person who comes into your house with a smile.
Whenever someone enters your home, whether they are visitors or a daily resident, make sure you greet them.

3. Laugh. And laugh often.
Life is too short to give anything your whole attention. Take it easy a little! Laughter is a healing emotion.

4. Ask insightful questions about people’s life and show real concern for them.
Prioritizing the needs of others is not always simple. But make an effort to seem sincere. Inquire deeply—and superficially—to learn more. Put yourself in the shoes of others.

5. Make people the priority, not objects and not cleaning.
When you consider making your house a haven, it’s difficult to look away. However, humans are a haven’s fundamental component. You create a caring environment where others feel loved and welcome when you prioritize your relationships before your belongings.

Any space can become a haven with the coziness of these small, intimate touches. The same as my grandmother did.