A random act of kindness can be easy to do. Your kindness, large or small, can make someone’s day! According to a study by The Ohio State University, showing kindness to others can help you when you are feeling depressed. I encourage you to be kind every day. You may feel better, and the recipient of your kindness will also.
Below are some creative random acts of kindness ideas, including suggestions on how to do them: Call or text a friend who needs encouragement. Or call or visit your mom and dad. Most parents are interested in the lives of their children and grandchildren.
Write a thank-you note—it’s an easy way to show kindness. A handwritten thank-you card sent in the mail can make for a delightful surprise in the mailbox. You can also send thank-you text messages or emails.
Offer to babysit, and then do it for free. Do you know a single parent or a couple that would enjoy a night out without the kids? Offer to babysit for them for free. Be sure to follow through by setting a date, and then plan a few fun activities with the kids.
Next time you dine out, give a generous tip. While large tips are usually popular at the end of the year, you can surprise a server with a generous tip at any time. The amount that is considered “generous” is up to you. Anything above 20 percent will likely feel like extra to the waiter or waitress.
Compliment a stranger. Saying “Awesome shirt” or “I love your hat” is an excellent and easy way to acknowledge another human being.
You can also talk to a neighbor. Is there someone you’ve been waving at as you back out of your driveway every morning? While waving is kind, take the relationship to the next level by having a conversation. Then, perhaps, you will make a new friend.
Do a household chore you normally would not do. Show gratitude by doing a task around the house that somebody else usually does. For example, mow the lawn, do the dishes, clean a room, scoop the kitty litter boxes, or make dinner.
Maybe surprise a family in need with a gift card. You may know someone in your neighborhood, family, or church who is going through a tough financial time. You could give them a gift card to a local grocery store or retail store to show them kindness. While not as easy, you may also be able to pay a utility bill for them directly through the utility company.
Do something for a senior friend. As people age, the once-easy tasks can become difficult. An older friend, neighbor, or family member may appreciate a ride to an appointment, help to get groceries, or just a visit.
I hope these ideas have inspired you to express kindness to those around you. While a list of ideas may make your kindness feel planned, one of these ideas may randomly pop into your head someday when the opportunity presents itself. And if you’ve experienced a random act of kindness, be sure to say “thank you.”
And, please, love one another.
Daniel J. Jachimiak, BA, is a writer and speaker. Dan can be reached at djachimiak@bex.net or 419 787-2036. You can have a better life. ✲
