Whenever the world seems like a dark and lonely place, we have to remind ourselves that love, compassion, and generosity are still out there. Even the most simple act of kindness can change the world by making someone smile and have a more positive outlook.
Perhaps a stranger has done something kind for you, and you would like to find a way to give back. Or perhaps you would like to be the generous stranger who makes a positive difference in other people’s lives and inspires them to pay it forward.
If you don’t know where to start, here are ten simple acts of kindness ideas to inspire you. Many of them cost nothing, so there is no excuse not to start today.
1. Smile at everyone you meet
Smiling at everyone you meet, whether your neighbour or a perfect stranger, is a simple act of kindness that costs nothing.
You can also simply give a friendly nod to anyone who crosses your path and see how many people will smile or nod back at you. And even if no one returns your gesture, you will still feel good for doing it.
2. Listen when someone is talking to you
This might seem like a no-brainer: we listen to them when someone talks to us. Or do we? Sometimes, it’s easy to be distracted, and we don’t even realize that we don’t pay attention to what someone is saying.
Show other people what they have to say matters to you by truly listening to them without looking at your phone.
3. Donate to a good cause
Whether it’s donating to a church or donating food, clothes and old toys to charity, giving something to someone who needs it is a remarkable act of kindness.
Find a cause close to your heart, such as the United Church of Canada mission and service fund. Support it by donating money or items or volunteering some of your time.
4. Hold the door open for someone else
This is one of the most simple acts of kindness you can do. Hold it open for someone coming behind you whenever you open a door while running errands.
This is a small gesture, but it can be enough to make someone smile and express their gratitude to you.
5. Let someone cut you in line at the store
If you are waiting in line at the grocery store and are in no hurry, you could let someone cut you in line, especially if they only have a few items and your shopping cart is full.
Someone who is pressed for time will appreciate this act of kindness and could even be inspired to do the same the next time they buy groceries and have nothing urgent on their schedule.
6. Pay for someone’s order at the drive through
If you want to surprise a stranger with a random act of kindness, you could pay for someone else’s order at the drive-through. Simply declare that you want to pay the order of the car behind yours when it’s time to pay for your order.
This is an easy way to brighten up someone’s day without expecting anything in return. And while you’re at it, why not leave a generous tip to the drive-through worker taking your order and arranging payment?
7. Add a kind comment on a blog post you enjoyed reading
It’s possible to show kindness from behind a screen, too. Whenever you read a blog post or an article you like, consider taking a moment to write a positive and encouraging comment.
This gesture would be even more meaningful if the free content you enjoyed was created by an independent artist or entrepreneur.
8. Leave a positive review for a coworker or a local business
Similarly, you could leave a positive review for a coworker or a local business on your favourite social media sites.
This is all about showing your appreciation for people or businesses you like and supporting them without having to spend any extra money.
9. Tell your loved ones how much they mean to you
Random acts of kindness are not only meant for strangers. Any day can be a good day to let your partner, kids, parents, or friends know how much they mean to you.
You can simply tell them something kind, give them a phone call, write them a note, or even get them a small meaningful gift.
10. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself!
Last but not least, don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Practice self-care, write down a gratitude list and don’t be hard on yourself.
After all, it’s a lot easier to show up and be kind to others when we take good care of our minds and body.
