It’s so easy to get caught up in our own lives and stresses that we forget what’s happening in the world around us. Or maybe we see what’s happening and feel unable to help those in need. Either way, it can be hard to remember that kindness is actually quite easy! Whether you’re helping a neighbor, reminding someone how special they are, or even showing yourself some love, these small acts of kindness, when added up, make a huge difference in the world.
Buy a coffee for the person behind you
Everyone needs their morning pick me up and buying coffee for the person behind you is a super-easy way to brighten someone’s day! The person behind you may even decide to keep the kindness going and start a chain of random acts of kindness like these customers in Florida!
Make cookies or muffins for your neighbors
If you’re new to the neighborhood or don’t know your neighbors very well, bringing them baked goods is a great way to break the ice. It’s a nice thing to do, helps start a connection, and gives you something to do with your hands while you have the initial awkward small talk.
Call your parents or grandparents
While you might be more interested in communicating through text and social media, your grandparents probably prefer talking on the phone. Give them a call to catch them up on your life and let them know you’re thinking of them! Calling regularly is a great way to secure your “favorite grandchild badge” for the year.
Next time you’re at the store buy a treat for your roommates or family
Who doesn’t like a little extra treat from the store? Next time you’re buying groceries, think about stopping in the snack aisle and grabbing something you know your partner loves. It’s a small gesture but one that can make people feel so loved.
Be gentle with yourself when you make a mistake
Random acts of kindness aren’t just for strangers or loved ones, it’s also important to be kind to yourself. Giving yourself the forgiveness and love you afford to others can make you a kinder person with more patience and a larger capacity to help others.
Leave a big tip
Most waiters and baristas make a good chunk of their income from tips so leaving a big tip can make a big difference.
Gently correct someone when they’re wrong
It can be extremely difficult to confront someone when something they’ve said is incorrect, you may be afraid of starting a conflict or having someone be mad at you, but it’s actually a kind thing to do. Correcting someone kindly and without judgment helps them learn and ensures they don’t continue to give out false information!
Learn some sign language
4.1% of the population of the United States is deaf and hard of hearing. Learning basic words in sign language such as “hello” “my name is” and “do you need help” can improve the comfort of deaf citizens and help ensure their safety. You can take sign language classes or pick up the basics online.
Send a care package or card to someone you haven’t talked to in a while
Reminding others that you’re thinking about them can be such a gift, plus an actual gift never hurts. Whether it’s your long-distance best friend, family that lives in another state, or an old roommate, getting mail from you will definitely brighten their day.
Share your loved one’s art and creations with others
When someone shows you art or another project that they worked hard on, consider sharing it with others, in persona, and on social media! Nothing shows someone you care about them like showing off their accomplishments.
Take time to really listen to someone.
Active listening is an important framework for how to really pay attention when someone is talking. Really listening to someone means you’re going into the conversation with the intent of hearing, not being heard so instead of half-listening while you think about what you’re going to say, turn all of your attention towards the other person.
Clean up around the house.
No one likes chores, we get it, but when someone you live with has had a hard week or is extra stressed out, picking up the slack is an incredible act of kindness. Coming home from a long day to find the dishes clean or floor swept might be the best feeling in the world so when you have a little extra free time, take a moment to provide that for someone.
Share something you love!
It’s something we learned in kindergarten but in the adult world, it can be hard to remember that sharing is in fact caring. Whether it be a friend or a stranger, sharing something you love is a selfless act that only puts more good in the world. If you’ve finished one of our book suggestions, give it a new home to help educate other people in the world!
Thank your mailman or garbage collector.
Many of us take for granted that our mail will always come to our house and our garbage will always leave. In reality, there are men and women working tirelessly to make our lives easier. When you have a free moment, try writing a note to your mailman or an email to your garbage collection company to thank them for all the work that they do.
Plant a tree or other plant
This act of kindness can help beautify your community but it also is an act of kindness for the earth. Trees help clean the air, provide a home for animals, and can help reduce stress! Take it a step further by offering to plant trees for your neighbors or people in your community who are unable to do it themselves.
We hope you try at least one of these today and see how great it feels! Drop us a line and let us know about your experience with random acts of kindness!
