It’s not too late in the year to work on a resolution to be a better person and build a better community. This February 17th provides you with the perfect opportunity: Random Acts of Kindness Day.
While most of us think about random acts of kindness as opening the door for strangers or paying for the coffee of the person behind us in line at the drive-thru, here are simple, free ways you can show kindness to others this February 17th.
Pick Up Trash
You’re not the only one who gets tired of seeing trash around the sidewalk or in the park, but it’s not going to pick it up itself! Grab just one or two grocery sacks and walk around picking up trash until you’ve filled them. This seemingly small action goes a long way.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/516014069788466200/
Say “Hello” and Smile
You’ve seen the commercials; just a small act of kindness — like noticing someone and saying hello, or giving them a smile — can change a person’s entire day. Smiles keep on giving. The more people you smile at, the happier everyone around you will be.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/196751077447000871/
Compliment Others
Find something good to say about others that you come into contact with (without sounding like too much of a kiss up, of course!) It can be anything from complimenting your office mate on their new shoes, to congratulating your neighbor on their promotion. Finding something positive in those around you makes them — and you — feel good inside. Psychologists say giving and receiving compliments is important to a balanced life.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200403/the-art-the-compliment
Donate Blood
Being able to donate blood helps to save lives. Eat a good meal, drink plenty of water, and plan on taking it easy the rest of the day. If you have a rare blood type, even better!
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/223420831493353690/
Visit a Nursing Home
Do you have a friend, neighbor, or family member in the nursing home? Chances are they would really like a visitor. Just knowing that someone is thinking about them can brighten their day.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/412712753323902808/
Write a Letter or Note
Modern technology makes it easy to communicate with the people in our lives, but there’s something to be said for getting a handwritten note in the mail. Ok, so it will cost you as much as a postage stamp (unless you hand deliver it) but receiving one is priceless!
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/173740498095005437/
Some people say that chivalry is dead, but it’s still considered to be a very kind thing to do to give your seat up for someone else. It could be on a bus, or for the mom who accidentally left her chair at home when she loaded everyone up for the soccer game. Putting others’ comforts first makes everyone feel good.
https://www.renetto.com/products/canopy-chair