National Day of Kindness - 10 REAL Acts of Kindness
World Kindness Day is coming up on November 13. World Kindness Day was created by the World Kindness Movement, whose mission is “to inspire individuals and connect nations to create a kinder world.”
Kindness is something that we could all use a little more of, and being kinder to each other doesn’t have to involve an extravagant effort or a ton of time and money. Often, it’s the little things that can really make a difference in someone’s life.
Here’s a list of real, impactful ways you can be kind:
Write a letter.
In the age of messaging apps and email, getting a hand-written note through snail mail is rare. And yet, nothing beats the warm fuzzies I’ve felt when I’ve gotten a real live letter from a friend. Likewise, when someone I know is going through a tough time, I like to put to pen to paper for a more personal, authentic approach to expressing how much I care. One of my favorite things about this practice is keeping old letters to have something tangible to bring out when you need to instantly lift your spirits.
Donate to a domestic violence organization.
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, why not donate to an organization that supports victims of domestic violence. The Bolton Refuge House and similar organizations are always in need of supplies, funds, and volunteers. For more information, visit https://www.boltonrefuge.org/donate.
Volunteer for an animal shelter.
Since National Cat Day is also a thing this month, consider volunteering at the local animal shelter. The Eau Claire Community Humane Association is looking for help with cleaning, clerical work, outreach programs, and, get this…”socializing with pets”. That sounds like a win-win! If volunteering doesn’t spark your interest, they are always accepting donations, and you can check out their Facebook page for their weekly wishlist.
Leave positive notes in random places.
This is something that’s on my radar because of discussions that I have had while facilitating the Body Project, the National Eating Disorder Association’s program for eating disorder prevention. We talked about writing body-positive Post-it notes and sticking them in diet books, and it led to a conversation about sticking them on public bathroom mirrors as well. I think this is such a rad idea that it shouldn’t be limited to body positivity. Any kind words will do, and the more visible, the better. Just be sure not to stick any Post-its outside - the act of littering negates the act of kindness.
Spend 1:1 time with someone.
We all get busy, and life sometimes gets in the way of nurturing our important relationships. Making time to fully be present with someone with no phones or distractions can be a powerful act of kindness. For me, this means spending one-on-one time with just one of my kids or having a conversation with my husband that doesn't involve discussing the kids, schedules, or school. P.S. These meaningful interactions will help fill your cup, too!
Remember details.
How does it feel when someone remembers your birthday, your coffee order, or your favorite treat? Little things like a card or a coffee can show someone that you think they are important enough to remember. It can be as simple as grabbing an extra candy bar at Kwik Trip to make someone feel good.
Cook for someone.
Cooking something special for someone feeds the body and soul. You don’t need to be a talented chef or make anything fancy to bump up your karma. For example, my husband is the cook in my family, so anytime I can make a meal for him, he makes me feel like I’ve performed some grand gesture. He swears it tastes better (not true) and I get to pretend I’m a domestic goddess for frying some bacon and eggs. To feed someone is to take care of them, and that is a beautiful way to be kind.
Be polite to customer service workers.
As someone who worked in food service for nearly 20 years, this one is important to me. You don’t have to be over-the-top friendly. Basic politeness will do. Often, the person bringing you food or bagging your groceries has been on their feet for hours without anyone really interacting with them as if they were a human being. Hearing a simple “please,” “thank you,” or even better, “How are you doing?” can make a huge difference in their day.
This goes for customer service workers on the phone as well. There are few things more frustrating than trying to get an issue resolved over the phone but try to remember whatever the problem, the person you are talking to probably isn’t to blame. Also, you’re much more likely to get what you want if you can stay kind.
Be a good neighbor.
I’ll be real, I don’t talk to many of my neighbors. I don’t know a lot of their names. I’m not saying you have to drop by with a casserole and chat, more like just a smile and a wave when you see them. Let them know when you are hosting a party and how they can reach you if it gets too loud. Bring your elderly neighbor’s empty garbage cans back from the curb in icy weather. You don’t need to make friends to be a kind neighbor, just be considerate.
Be kind to yourself.
We forget this one sometimes, but yes, acts of kindness also include acts of self-compassion. There are times when we are too critical of ourselves, and I would challenge you to try and speak to yourself like you would speak to a dear friend. The kinder you are to yourself, the more natural it will feel to be kind to others. This can be challenging for many of us, but it is so, so important.
I hope this inspires you to celebrate World Kindness Day with some realness. If we can practice these small actions on this day and every day, it can have a real impact. Now let’s go forth and do good!
