Random Acts of Kindness

During this time of year, people are generally thinking about giving and the different ways in which they can be more generous and kinder human beings overall. Being thoughtful and practicing random acts of kindness regularly can transform you into a more generous and kind person. Here are some areas to consider making kindness and generosity part of your identity.

1. Food.

I have met very few people in my life who are not thrilled to come together over food so it's no surprise that this is on the top of the list. Add that to the fact that food insecurity touches millions of households every year with women, children, single-parent households, seniors, and minorities bearing the brunt of those statistics and we can see why food is of particular interest.

What you can do.

Bring in office snacks or treats, buy gift cards to grocery stores for those on limited or fixed incomes or in need, pay for the car or person behind you in line, deliver a bag of groceries to someone you know who just got laid off, grab a meal or a drink to the homeless person outside the coffee shop, etc.

2. Simple, Random Gifts.

These are nice because they are relatively inexpensive, straighforward, and thoughtful.

What you can do.

Buy someone's coffee, write a letter or send a card via snail mail (who doesn't love receiving non-bill related mail?), small gift cards ($5 or $10), especially for those who may not have the disposable income for a small treat.

3. Donate.

Donating is huge even if you can only donate a little bit.

What you can do.

Donate snacks or school supplies to a school in need or to your teacher friend's classroom, donate to your local food bank, and/or animal shelters. Attend community theater and local events who are funded by donations, and don't forget that you can always donate to your local library.

4. Free + Upbuilding Acts.

Don't underestimate the power of everyday gestures and actions that don't cost you a dime. These are arguably the most powerful because in a world that can sometimes be so cruel and unkind, you can choose to be the opposite.

What you can do.

Smile at those you pass by, acknowledge someone's existence with a simple hello and make eye contact, say a kind word, give a sincere compliment, offer upbuilding conversation, pick up trash when you see it, hold the door open for the person or people behind you, etc.

What are the random acts of kindness you engage in or would like to?