Random Acts of Kindness Day
There is a famous quote from Aesop that says, “no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” In a way, this saying can almost fully encapsulate what Random Acts of Kindness aims to do in the world. The organization, which believes anyone can connect with others through kindness and that it can be taught, is celebrating their annual Random Acts of Kindness Day on February 17th. To help celebrate the day, here a few ways that you can help spread kindness that you may have never thought of before:
Learn Something New About Someone – Most people go about their day in a sort of routine. They may see the same people every day and not know much about them. This is especially true in an office setting. Take some time out of your day and strike up a conversation with someone you don’t know that well and simply ask them about themselves. What do they like to do? What’s their favorite movie? Simply striking up this conversation can be a great way to put a smile on someone’s face.
Tip! One of the most often overlooked aspects of kindness is the act of tipping. Most people follow a traditional sense of tipping between 10-20% of their final bill but giving a little bit more can make a difference in your server’s day. While you should always tip in accordance with your own personal budget, offering up an extra $25 on a simple $5 coffee can help spread some kindness.
Spare Change? – We’ve all felt that sudden rush of happiness when we unexpectedly find some spare change in our pockets that we forgot about. Instead of putting it away or spending it immediately, think about making someone else’s day with those nickels, dimes and quarters. One of the best ways to do so is at the laundromat or in your building’s laundry room. Simply leave that change in or near the machine and help someone feel a little bit better before starting their laundry.
Make Positivity ‘Stick’ – Have you ever come across a piece of art or graffiti on the street that made you feel happy or positive? Well the same concept can be applied in the office or at home! Take a few minutes in the morning and write up a few, positively worded sticky notes and leave them around your office or home for others to find. Who wouldn’t love picking up a coffee pot to find a note saying, ‘You’re amazing!’ underneath it?
Be a Trash Collector – Every day, chances are you pass up pieces of garbage laying around the streets of your city or neighborhood. Spread some kindness and set a good example by picking up as many pieces of trash as you can as you walk to/from your destination. Not only will you maybe inspire someone to do the same, but you’ll be helping the environment too!
Donate Books (with a Surprise!) – Something as simple as donating old books to your local library, youth centers or hospitals is a great way to clean up some space while also making a difference. Even better, incorporate some of those positive sticky notes in some of the pages and give the next reader an expected smile.
