Share the kindness – bring a smile to someone today

We don’t need a reason to share the kindness, but it can feel like an effort, so here’s some ideas for little ways to bring a smile to someone’s face

It was Random Acts of Kindness Day earlier this month, but we thought it was important to carry the kindness forward. We don’t need a ‘national day’ to share the kindness.

Little acts of kindness often don’t take a lot. It makes a positive impression on some else’s day, and you’ll find yourself feeling a fuzzy goodness for spreading the kindness. 

It can be hard to come up with inspiration when you’re busy or brain fired, so we took a handful of suggestions from the team, and put together some inspiration for you…

Kindness to strangers

Pre-purchase a book for someone to receive later

Check with the store manager first, but this one is truly selfless, and we love this. Because you won’t see the stranger your act of kindness will affect. Pick your favourite book and tuck a note in the cover saying how much you hope they’ll enjoy the story, on you.

Sincerely compliment a stranger

OK so this one can be odd, so be aware of that – you don’t want to end up looking like a stalker or weirdo. We’ve become nervous around talking to each other, and it’s important to be careful. But largely, people appreciate a sincere, non-creepy compliment. I was once complimented by a stranger on my skin, it took me by surprise. However, I still smile when I remember it today. If you really like someone’s jacket, let them know!

Leave a bigger tip than usual (add a thank you note for bonus kindness)

Hospitality staff can go through a lot. Rude customers, messy kids, grumpy managers… Plus, they’re usually on their feet for eight hours or more, running back and forth carrying plates. Giving them a really decent tip (no, not 10%, go for 25%!) and perhaps a quick thank-you note for their service, will absolutely make their day. Or at the very least, make it better!

Randomly unselfish acts

Write a positive review online for a local business

Small businesses really need it, and it doesn’t take long. People can be quick to leave a bad review, but rarer good ones. A quick review and rating for your favourite local butchers or coffee shop will mean a lot. Search them up on Google or TripAdvisor to leave a review, or their Facebook page.

Donate blood

Giving blood can save someone’s life. There are lots of opportunities to sign up and give blood Read more about how to become a blood donor, here.

Pick up litter on the street

It’s an absolute eyesore for any walkers-by, and the environment certainly doesn’t appreciate it. Take an extra minute or two on your walk to pick up any empty crisp packets or coffee cups and dispose of them properly. Wash your hands afterwards, or use some eco-friendly disposable gloves. 

Show some kindness to family/friends

Call your siblings and/or parents to tell them you appreciate them

Ah, families ay? You might have had your differences or probably fallings-out over the years. And we often take them for granted knowing they’ve always been there. Take a moment to thank your mum, dad, or a sibling for being in your life. They won’t be here forever, and neither will you.

Use street chalk to write happy messages in your town with your children/grandchildren/nieces/ nephews

Share the kindness with any of the youngsters in your life. It’ll teach them that kindness can be fun and creative. Plus, this leaves a positive note for anyone who’s walking by.

Call your siblings and/or parents to tell them you appreciate them

Ah, families ay? You might have had your differences or probably fallings-out over the years. And we often take them for granted knowing they’ve always been there. Take a moment to thank your mum, dad, or a sibling for being in your life. They won’t be here forever, and neither will you.

Bring some kindness to the workplace

Say hello to the person sitting by themselves 

Although it’s often a bonus to have the space to just work uninterrupted, there will be times when people might appreciate a little hello. Sitting alone at lunch, or just isolated all day at work. A little smile and a hello might be welcome. 

Say something nice to someone you don’t get along with

There is enormous value in this. There isn’t a person on the planet who gets along with everyone! We’re willing to bet there’s someone at work you don’t get on with, and the feeling is likely to be mutual. Step into a different space with them by engaging on an unexpectedly friendly basis. You never know, it could build a little bridge. If this is a conflict or hostile situation, obviously it’s less advisable. But you can judge that. 

Leave post-it notes for colleagues with positive/kind messages 

Doesn’t have to be anything complicated. You could compliment someone on a job well done. Maybe tell them how you enjoy working with them. How about you get them a coffee and stick the note on the cup for them! Double the love!

There are lots of other ways to bring a smile to someone with your kindness. Just check the idea with yourself before you go ahead, think how you would perceive it if someone gave it to you. People can find it hard to accept kindness, so tell them to pay it forward – then they’ll perhaps feel more comfortable to accept it from you. Mostly though, we’re going to bet that kindness is well-received. Enjoy spreading the joy!