The world could always use a little more kindness. In order to be the type of change you want to see in the world, it’s important to remember to practice what you preach. Luckily, there are some acts of kindness that you can do easily to make somebody else’s day brighter. Check out some easy ideas you can put into action right away to make somebody smile, or better yet, turn around their entire day or week!
1. Drop Off a Care Package
Keep personal care packages in your car to hand out to the homeless. Include items like toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, snacks and more. In addition, you could create a care package for somebody who you know needs a pick-me-up. Include some of their favorite snack foods or flowers just because.
2. Hold the Door
Random acts of kindness don’t have to be a huge gesture. In fact, something as simple as holding the door open for the next person who is a few steps away is something kind you can do that may turn their day around. In addition, flashing a smile to strangers can help provoke a smile from their face. Smiling has even been proven to help people live longer!
3. Pay the Tab
This could work in a fast food line, at a grocery store or even at a restaurant for a random stranger. If you’re able, consider buying somebody’s meal or drinks just because.
4. Mow a Lawn or Do a Chore
If you’re able, consider mowing the lawn in the summer for a neighbor. If you don’t have a mower to lend, consider another chore! Go pick up groceries for somebody who isn’t able to make it out of the house in the heat or snow. In the winter, scoop the sidewalk.
5. Donate Gently Used Items
Why wait for Spring cleaning to come back around? Clean out your house and closet and donate items you no longer need that somebody may be able to use.
6. Volunteer at a Local Shelter
Our furry friends could always use some help. Find a local shelter and volunteer for the day to help play with the animals, or do whatever tasks are needed. Pets that are waiting to be adopted need all of the love and attention they can get!
7. Pay it Forward
Think of the last random act of kindness that was done for you. Use that idea, and do the same thing for somebody else. If it made a difference in your day, it’s sure to make a difference for a stranger or friend.
8. Compliment Someone
A compliment is free and yet it has a lasting impact. Be genuine with your compliments and make sure to tell people when you like something they do or see a strength in them.
9. Do Community Service
There is always work to be done in our communities. Consider partnering with a local organization. Or, you can organize your own community cleanup or betterment project. Get those around you involved!
10. Let Someone Go Ahead of You
Traffic may be a nightmare. The line at the grocery store is long. No matter where the line is, if you have time and somebody seems to be in a hurry, let them go ahead of you. This small gesture is an easy and guaranteed way to turn someone’s day around.
These 10 random acts of kindness are simple to do, and yet they have the possibility to start a kindness reaction throughout the world. Take some time this week to think of a way that you can make a difference in the lives of others and go do it! There is plenty of kindness to spare, and the world could always use a little more kindness.
