In a world filled with so much judgement, hatred, and violence, it's often difficult to look past that and view the world as a kind place. Even if the world around you seems like it will never be a peaceful, loving place, you can still make a small difference. Sure, a single person can't stop people from being mean or violent towards each other, and world peace is not within one person's reach. However, what we all can do to promote peace, love, and a general respect for others is practice random acts of kindness. An act of kindness, no matter how small, can have such a powerful ripple-effect on others. When people are treated with kindness, they will often convey that same kindness towards others and before you know it, you've impacted quite a few people. No act of kindness is menial or unimportant; anything done with kindness is significant and beneficial to our world today. Here are some small ways to make a big difference.
Give someone a compliment.
One of the simplest ways to make someone's day is to tell them how much you like something about them. Whether you compliment someone's clothes, jewelry, intelligence, or personality, you will boost their confidence and make them smile. People love hearing good things about themselves, and a compliment can make someone instantly happier.
Pay for someone's food.
Occasionally, you see status updates on Facebook about a grateful person who had their order paid for by the person in front of them in the drive-through. The people who were on the receiving end of this deed were likely extremely grateful and happy, which in itself is reason enough to do this. You don't necessarily have to spend money to be kind to others and make them happy, but it works in this case. Also, if the person you help posts about it on social media, that may inspire others to do the same for someone else.
Tell your friends and family how much you love them.
We often forget to tell the people in our lives how much we love them and appreciate them. The people we care about most are often the people we take for granted the most. Let the people in your life know how grateful you are for them and their impact; kindness should start with the people closest to you.
Tip your waiter or waitress generously.
Waiters and waitresses are usually overworked and under-tipped. If your waiter or waitress did a great job and you have a few extra bucks to spare, let them know that you appreciated their service by tipping them well.
Do chores for your roommate (or family member or spouse).
Let's face it: no one likes cleaning or doing chores. If you know that your roommate is busy and doesn't really have time to clean something of theirs that needs to be cleaned, do it for them. If their trash is piling up and they've been working all day, take it out for them. Little acts like this are a simple way to show that you care.
Get in touch with an old friend.
The friendships that you've made throughout your life won't all stay strong forever; people lose touch as their lives take different paths, and that's okay. Just because you've fallen out of touch with someone for a while, doesn't mean you should abandon that friendship. Your friend will be happy to know that you were thinking of them, and you'll be happy to catch up with someone you care about.
Leave an encouraging note for someone.
Whether they're for a friend or a complete stranger, little notes of encouragement are great motivators and mood-boosters. A few kind words are enough to make someone's day and give them the push in the right direction that they may need.
Let a driver merge into your lane.
Nothing ruins someone's day faster than rude drivers. A nice driver is a refreshing change from the ordinary, and many people will appreciate your patience and kindness when they're in a hurry to get somewhere.
Donate old clothes to the Salvation Army.
Take a few hours to go through your closet and donate the things you don't wear anymore. A good rule of thumb is to donate anything you haven't worn in the last year. Your donation will help many people get clothes they need, and even if they don't know who donated the clothes they're wearing, they will appreciate it.
Smile and make conversation with people in the elevator with you.
Elevator rides usually consist of a few moments of silence and many people scrolling through their phones. Make conversation with the people around you, or if you can tell that the people on the elevator aren't going to be in the mood for conversation, at least smile at them. A smile is the quickest, most subtle way to spread a little bit of kindness.
Be a positive person overall.
The best people to be around are kind people with a positive outlook on life. Not only do these people care about others, they also do everything they can to make the world a better place. They do little things to make a difference and to make others happy, and whether or not they realize it, they are promoting peace and happiness. By acting this way and by performing small acts of kindness, we can all make the world a better place to live in.
