Small acts of kindness are a simple way to brighten someone’s day. On this World Kindness Day, here are some ways you can show kindness to the people surrounding you. (Plus, all of these options are completely free! No need to add this into the super-tight college budget. I got you, girl!)
Compliment someone!
When you are getting your daily coffee, compliment your barista’s hairstyle. While you are running errands, mention how much you love the cashier’s jewelry. Customer service employees are so under-appreciated, so let them know how valuable they truly are. Something genuine and simple is a perfect way to be kind to a stranger and make them feel confident and beautiful.
Smile!
Smiling at a stranger is such a powerful mood uplifter. Those awkward moments when you make eye contact with someone can become positive when you just smile and keep moving on about your day. Both of you will walk away feeling a little bit happier!
Write a note!
A note can be so meaningful to people whose love language is words of affirmation. Sit down and write a short message about how much they mean to you. Talk about the qualities you love about them, like their contagious laughter, calming spirit, baking skills, or shopping addiction, and anything in between. These little notes have the ability to completely shift someone’s attitude and are lovely little acts of kindness.
Help out!
Hold the door open for the person behind you just to make their life a little bit easier. Pick up trash off the ground and be kind to the earth. Let someone go in line in front of you. Offer someone a pen or pencil. These small gestures are helpful and truly kind, and make an impact in your community.
Reach out!
Have a few free minutes in your day? Call a family member you haven’t talked to in a while. Text a friend and tell them how much they mean to you. Check-in with the people you have lost touch with. Make sure you actually pay close attention and listen. Just like that, you have made someone’s day!
Be kind to your community!
Writing notes to firefighters, nurses, or kids in the hospital spreads love to overlooked parts of your community. Getting a note of encouragement will bring so much joy to people who need a little extra kindness in their lives.
Be kind to yourself!
Remember to be gentle with yourself as well as others. Take time for self-care and give yourself breaks. Don’t run yourself into the ground trying to please everyone around you. You are kindest to others when you show yourself compassion.
Being kind can be completely free! It is ultimately rewarding for you as well as the recipient of your kind gestures. Kindness improves relationships, fosters compassion, and builds connections with the people around you. So take a minute to reach out to people. After all, it is the perfect day to start being kind.