- Smiles are irresistible. Don’t hesitate to smile warmly at friends, family, colleagues and even…strangers.
- Write hand-written thank-you notes. The notes don’t need to be an essay and people love to receive them. It’s the personal touch.
- If you use public transport, it’s busy and there are no free seats, be the first to stand-up and let a weary traveller, pregnant woman or elderly person take rest.
- Pay it forward – When you are in a coffee shop or café , maybe you could buy a coffee or cake in advance for the next customer that comes in. How tasty! Imagine what a sweet surprise that person will get when they discover that a kind stranger has paid it forward for them.
- When you see a homeless person, think about how you might be able to help them in some way. Buy a nutritious lunch. Ask them if there is anything that they need. Give them a warm coat. Share a conversation. Spend some time. Listen. Engage.
- That thing you’re going to sell. Why not give it away for free?
- Send flowers unexpectedly. No reason needed. Just because.
- Hold doors open. Even for people who are a little further away from the door than usual.
- Make your colleagues/classmates a hot-drink. Expect nothing in return. Well…maybe some doughnuts.
- Speaking of doughnuts…why not buy a bag full and share them out in all directions.
- Pay compliments.
- Does someone owe you money? Forgive the debt.
- When a person is talking to you _really_ listen to them.
- Pass books on, especially the good ones or leave them in public places for others to find.
- Ask elderly neighbours if they need anything doing.
- Tell your loved ones that you love them. Regularly.
- When you are served in a shop, bar, restaurant etc, make eye contact and sincerely thank the employee for their help.
- Put coins in a meter, any meter, that’s about to expire.
- If you know that someone is particularly busy, offer to take their dog for a walk.
- When a thought of generosity arises within you, act on it. Don’t hold back. This is important.
- If someone is struggling with money problems, find a way to secretly help them if you can. If not secretly, out in front.
- Take a friend to dinner.
- Stand up for others.
- Stop complaining.
- Standing in a queue? Let someone go before you.
- Tell someone that they look nice.
- Volunteer some time to help a charity or perhaps a homeless shelter.
- Stop speaking ill of others. Let your words be kind.
- Forgive a driver for their error on the road or their road rage directed at you.
- Recycle.
- Think of the people in your life…what help do they need with chores or tasks? Don’t wait to be asked.
- Be the calm voice in a stressful situation.
- Donate to your favourite charity.
- Spend some time with a senior citizen living on their own.
- Teach a child something you wish you knew at that age.
- If a friend or family member is having a hard time, make sure they know that you are there for them and are available to talk and help.
- Give Blood.
- Donate to or volunteer for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
- Encourage someone to pursue their dream.
- “Please” and “Thank You”
Don't forget to reach out and spread the warmth with any of these simple #actsofkindness!
