Who's Your 'Human Sunbeam'? Here's 5 Ways To Tell

Some people are 'human sunbeams,' who radiate light, warmth and positivity. Here's how to identify one in your life.

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | February 06, 2025

In a world that often feels clouded with chaos and uncertainty, "human sunbeams" bring light, warmth and a quiet steadiness into your life. Inspired by the idea that certain people radiate positivity much like the color yellow, this person doesn't just make you feel happy—they make you feel seen, valued and deeply understood.

But their identity isn't always obvious. They aren't necessarily the most extroverted or bubbly in the room. Their impact is often subtle, in ways you may not notice at first. Their impact is often felt more than seen, and their contributions can easily go unnoticed if we're not paying attention. So, how do you recognize this person in your life?

Here are five ways to identify the one who's quietly been your anchor all along.

1. They Cultivate Calm In Your Chaos

Your human sunbeam doesn't just sympathize when life feels overwhelming—they create a sense of calm within it. When everything feels like it's spiraling, they have an intuitive ability to steady you, whether it's through their presence, their words or simply their way of listening. They don't rush to fix things or offer hollow reassurance. Instead, they create an environment where you can process your emotions without fear of judgment.

A 2019 study published in PLOS One found that interacting with people you trust enhances mindfulness. This suggests that the people who bring you the most inner peace aren't just offering emotional support—they are actively shaping your ability to stay present and navigate stress more effectively.

Take the following steps to start identifying them:

• Think about who in your life makes you feel safe, even when everything else feels unpredictable.
• Reflect on whether there's someone in your life whose presence alone makes it easier to breathe, to think clearly and to find strength in difficult moments.

2. They Show Up When You Least Expect It

This person has an uncanny ability to sense when you need them, even when you haven't said a word. Their support isn't loud or performative—it's quiet, steady and deeply intuitive. They know exactly when to check in, just when you've convinced yourself that no one notices your struggle. Their presence feels natural and not out of obligation, but genuine care.

According to a 2014 study on relational support functions, published in Personality and Social Psychology Review, this kind of support plays a crucial role in helping individuals cope with adversity and navigate life's challenges.

The people we turn to in times of stress are not necessarily those who always offer advice or solutions, but those who create a sense of being seen, understood and emotionally held. This emotional responsiveness strengthens our ability to navigate challenges and builds long-term relationship satisfaction.

To identify such individuals,

• Think back to times when you were struggling—who was there for you without necessarily being asked?
• Notice who constantly checks in on you and asks about how you're doing.

3. They Add Texture To Your Life, Not Just Color

A true embodiment of a human sunbeam doesn't just bring light into your life—they bring depth. Their presence transforms ordinary moments into meaningful ones, whether through rich conversations, shared silences or the way they challenge you to think in new ways. They don't just make you laugh—they encourage you to reflect, grow and feel more connected to your own story.

Such individuals tend to enrich your life by introducing new experiences, perspectives and complexities. They push you out of your comfort zone and offer you a chance to view the world differently, embrace the unconventional and grow emotionally.

To identify them, ask yourself:

• Who makes everyday moments—like sitting in a coffee shop, going for a walk or sharing a meal—feel special and significant?
• Who brings out a more thoughtful, reflective version of you?
• Identify who challenges your thinking and encourages you to explore different perspectives on life.

4. They Teach You To Dance With The Unexpected

Life rarely goes as planned, and the right person by your side turns those unexpected detours into opportunities for growth and joy. They have an infectious ability to reframe challenges, making even the most frustrating circumstances feel lighter.

Researchers term this "micro serendipity," referring to how small, unexpected moments of creativity come from shared efforts. With their spontaneous energy and flexible mindset, they inspire you to let go of rigidity and embrace life's surprises with a sense of curiosity and adventure.

To identify them, ask yourself:

• Who in your life turns a missed train, a sudden downpour or a change in plans into something fun or memorable?
• Reflect on someone who helps you see life's detours not as failures, but opportunities.
• Who encourages you to laugh at life's curveballs instead of fearing them?

5. They Anchor Your Confidence With Quiet Assurance

Your human sunbeam doesn't need to deliver grand motivational speeches or constant reassurance. Instead, their belief in you is felt in the way they listen, the way they encourage and the way they remind you of your own strength—even when you doubt yourself.

Research shows that three beliefs—how confident you are in yourself (self-efficacy), how confident you are in your partner (other-efficacy), and how confident you think your partner is in you—work together in relationships.

These beliefs don't just shape individual success—they reinforce trust, emotional security and resilience within relationships. In tough times, this person helps you rebuild your confidence by reflecting back to you the strength you may have momentarily forgotten.

To identify them, journal about:

• Who in your life helps you feel capable, not by solving your problems for you, but by reminding you of your own ability to handle them?
• Who instills in you a sense of quiet confidence just by being in your corner?

So, take a moment today to reflect on the person who reminds you of the color yellow, and thank them. You might find that they're already closer than you think—and maybe, you've been that person for someone else all along. It's a special feeling to recognize the impact they have on you and appreciate the subtle ways they add warmth and color to your world.

Has your human sunbeam helped you cultivate a growth mindset through life's challenges? Take this science-backed test to find out: Growth Mindset Scale

A similar version of this article can also be found on Forbes.com, here.