The world can be full of negative things and often we focus on more of the stress that seeps into our everyday life. A simple act of kindness can change someone’s day dramatically. Kindness can not only uplift their spirits but make you feel happier too.
Our lives can be hectic and our busy schedules can often get in the way of simply being kind to another person we come in contact with. Yet, the amazing thing about the smallest gesture of kindness can brighten someone’s day and make you feel more connected to those around you.
Check out these 12 ways to spread a little kindness.
1. Pay it forward
When you have something nice happen to you, do something nice for someone else. Paying it forward can be simple and spreads quickly throughout the day.
2. Compliment someone
You can make someone’s day simply by a kind word or phrase. It can be a simple or sincere compliment in person or on social media.
3. Treat everyone with kindness you come across today
It might not be easy depending on how your day is going or if something comes up that disrupts your day, but trust me it’s worth trying. Be mindful of your words by not saying anything negative for an entire day. It’s okay if you slip, we are all humans and make mistakes. Simply re-start and remember kindness is your intention for the day.
4. Donate to a charity or cause
You can donate to a charity or cause. It can be money—the amount doesn’t matter—or something you might have at home that you don’t use anymore.
5. Greet a stranger with a smile and kind word
You can brighten someone’s day by looking them in the eyes and smiling. You can even give them a simple greeting of “Hello.” This act can make someone feel more connected, especially valued if they feel unnoticed.
6. Meet your neighbors
Sometimes our busy schedules prevent us from getting to know your neighbors. If you see them out and about in the yard or out in the community be sure to say hello. Introducing yourself to old and new neighbors doesn’t hurt either!
7. Express appreciation for a past favor
Thanking someone who helped you in the past again is another great way to make someone’s day. It can make the person feel like they impacted your life. It doesn’t matter how long ago the person helped you out.
8. Call
Call a friend or family member. The conversation doesn’t have to be long. The simple gesture will make them feel good and knowing you are thinking about them.
9. Listen to a friend or family member
Most of us want to be heard without judgement or getting advice. When someone is truly listening with an open heart it can be very impactful on someone’s day and even the rest of their life.
10. Write a hand-written note or card
Send a note to a friend or family member. Hand-written notes aren’t out of fashion. It’s a small investment of taking time out of your day to write a note or card, but your friend or family member can reread the card or note if they need a pick-me-up.
11. Leave money somewhere to be found
Write a note with money inside that tells the person who finds the note to spend it on themselves. It doesn’t have to be a lot of money either.
12. Benefit of the doubt
Someone else might be short with you or late for an appointment during your day. It’s good to remember we all make mistakes and might have other reasons for acting negatively to each other.