Hey everyone!! Today is February 17, which means it is Random Acts of Kindness Day. Spreading kindness and positivity is important all year round, not just today, but I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to give some suggestions of random acts of kindness you can complete. They are small actions which benefit your family, friends, or even strangers, and most of them either cost nothing, or are fairly affordable to do. It's important that you complete these actions with no expectations of getting something in return - you're not doing them to benefit yourself (although that being said, it's proven that being kind is likely to increase your serotonin and energy levels!).
There are hundreds of acts you could complete, but here's a short list with some of my favourite ideas:
Pay for the order of somebody behind you.
Obviously we're in a lockdown, so it's not possible to do this in restaurants, pubs etc. but there are still some drive-thrus and coffee shops open. When you next go into one, if you're in a financial position to do so, it's a really lovely thing to pay for the order of the person behind you too.
Buy some extra food when doing your weekly shop, to donate to foodbanks.
I'm not sure about other supermarkets, but my local Sainsbury's has boxes by the exit, where people can put donations which will go to our local foodbanks. While your picking up your groceries, you could buy a little extra to donate.
Write letters to your friends / extended family
These days, we almost all communicate with our friends + family via the Internet, but sending someone a handmade card in the mail is so thoughtful, and shows the person that you've made a real effort. Cards aren't too expensive to post, so this is a fairly accessible option.
Bake goods and hand deliver them
Alternatively to the option above, if you live near your loved ones, you could go the extra mile by baking and hand-delivering their favourite treats. Obviously, it's important to follow covid guidelines while doing this - but if you leave them on their doorstep and then quickly run back, it's definitely possible!!
Support a small business
If there's something you need to buy, try and see if you can buy it from a small business instead of a large corporation. £20 means nothing to a business like Amazon, but can really make the day of a small business owner. I'm going to be doing a whole blog post soon sharing my favourite small businesses, so stay tuned for that!
Pick up litter
It's important to be kind to the environment too - go to a part of your area which is notorious for having lots of litter, bring a bag, pick it up and dispose of it correctly!! *Remember to bring some gloves, and hand sanitizer to stay hygienic*
Send a thank-you email to your teacher
Teaching through this pandemic has definitely been a challenge, so if you're a student you could send your favourite teacher an appreciative email to remind them that you are grateful for them.
Listen to smaller musicians
There are so many singers/musicians out there who are trying to make it - scroll through hashtags like #independentartist, and give some of their songs a listen. It's fun for you, and likely means a lot to them!
Give compliments!
It's a cliche one, but that's because it costs nothing and can have a lasting effect on someone's day. Obviously we're not out and about much at the moment so it's harder to give them to strangers, but maybe when you next go to the supermarket you could compliment the cashier... Alternatively, just pay compliments to those in your household, or text a family member/friend.
Had a positive customer service experience? Tell the company.
Companies are so used to dealing with complaints from customers, so if you've had a positive experience recently, why not email in and tell them. Not only will the worker receive recognition for their good work, but it's also likely to be a refreshing change for the person managing the company's social media/email.
Cook for your family
Now I have to admit, I am not good at cooking (!), but I do think making a surprise meal for your family would be a lovely way to spread kindness.
TREAT YOURSELF
And most importantly, be kind to YOU. Random acts of kindness aren't just limited to other people... buy yourself a hot chocolate, do a face mask, treat yourself to a new dress, eat some cake or do something else to treat yourself!!
What other suggestions would you add to the list? Which of these do you think you would do? What has been the nicest act of kindness anyone has ever done for you? Let me know in the comments below!!
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Lexie x
