Random Acts of Kindness: A Daily Act

Random Acts of Kindness: no, I’m not talking about paying for the car behind in the coffee drive-thru. Let’s be honest: what benefit does that bring? It creates a line of cars guilt paying for the next car. Where in the end, everyone is still paying for a coffee they were already planning to pay for, and someone is judged when they end the offer streak. I’m talking about doing actual acts of kindness to those around you for the sheer reason of being kind, not for recognition or external accolades.

While the world is spinning around chaotically, sometimes a simple action can create a blissful ripple of joy. There are so many seemingly random acts of kindness you can do daily that can bring happiness to your life and others. Remembering to spread acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.

Random acts of kindness can benefit the giver, the recipient, and society. Some of the benefits are:

Improved Mental Health

Acts of kindness can boost your mood almost instantly and reduce stress. Positive interactions can release oxytocin and serotonin.

Strengthening Relationships

Doing something kind for others can strengthen the bond between the giver and recipient.

Encourages Positive Behavior

When you perform acts of kindness, you are setting an example for others to follow in your lead by example, creating a ripple effect of kindness.

Increase in Self-Worth

Helping others can boost your self-esteem and sense of purpose by seeing your positive impact on the world.

Makes the World Better

While one simple act may seem small, it may mean the world to the recipient. The collective effort of acts of kindness leads to a more compassionate and connected society.

There are so many ways you can spread random acts of kindness at home, in the community, and at work. Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has many resources to make kindness the norm. The best part is that so much kindness can be completely free. Here is a quick start list of free or low cost ideas on how to spread kindness:

For Friends and Family

1. 1. Write a heartfelt note or card expressing appreciation
   2. Surprise them with their favorite snack
   3. Give a genuine compliment to make them feel special
   4. Spend dedicated time with them
   5. Send flowers to a friend

For Strangers

1. 6. Hold the door or elevator open for someone
   7. Let someone jump in line
   8. Leave an encouraging sticky note in a public place
   9. Leave change in the vending machine
   10. Give a stranger a genuine compliment

At Work

1. 11. Bring in treats for co-workers
   12. Praise someone’s hard work in front of others
   13. Leave a positive recommendation on LinkedIn
   14. Learn the names of everyone you see every day at work and greet them by name
   15. Email a former teacher or leader who made a positive difference in your life

In the Community

1. 16. Add money to a soon expiring parking meter
   17. Pick up litter at a public space
   18. Donate clothes, food, or supplies to a shelter
   19. Leave an extra tip for a server or delivery driver
   20. Volunteer at a local non-profit

Online and Social Media

1. 21. Leave a positive review on a local business
   22. Share an inspiring/good-news story
   23. Message a friend you have not spoken with in a while
   24. Leave a positive comment on someone’s blog
   25. Avoid negative interactions

I can promise you that you will not regret being kind. If you can choose to be anything in this world, choose to be kind.