A smile from a stranger. Someone holding open a door for you, or letting you in line first. Kindness comes in many forms. It isn’t necessarily just about big gestures.
There’s value in extending empathy, compassion, and kindness. The great thing is, it will return to you, two-fold. By helping others, you’ll feel better about yourself.
Use your talents to give back in a meaningful way. If you can cook, you can volunteer at a homeless shelter that provides free meals. Love fitness? Sign-up for a charitable walk. Every little ‘good’ action counts.
Even if it’s small, you can make a big difference. Pay-forward for someone’s morning coffee or lunch. Is your colleague having a tough day? Slip a little note onto their desk.
Train your brain to become a giver
Practice kindness in your everyday life. Remember these things:
You have the power to change someone’s life
Accepting this is an important step. No matter who you are, you’ve got something to offer. Even if it’s as simple as lifting someone’s spirits, that’s kindness. You never know how much power that action can have.
Be kind to yourself. Show gratitude.
Love yourself, first. If you’re not kind to yourself, how can you expect to help others. Keep a gratitude journal to record all of the things good in your life. The process helps bring peace and wellbeing. Sometimes it’s easier to see the gifts in your life once they’re on the page, ‘looking’ back at you.
Here are 10 easy ways to give back. Best of all, they’re free.
- Cook a meal or do a load of laundry for a friend who just had a baby or is going through a difficult time
- Put your phone away. And listen, really listen.
- Each time you get a new piece of clothing, donate an old one
- Email or write an old teacher who made a difference in your life
- Smile at someone on the street, just because!
- Let someone into your lane. They’re probably in a rush, more than you.
- When you visit people, ask if you can pick up anything they need
- Talk to someone at work whom you haven’t spoken to before
- Tell your parents how much you appreciate them
- Empathise.
Show awareness of people around you
Be happy, live happy. Learn more about living an authentic, happy life. Share your daily happiness. Use #happyacts to let us how you’ve given back.
Need ideas? Check this article out. It goes through the different ways to give back, according to your personal strengths. Remember, giving isn’t just about providing money. You can volunteer your time, pass on a book that’s changed your life, participate in a charity walk or connect people with your network.
You don’t necessarily need anything to give. Sometimes, it’s as simple as lending your ear to someone in need. Stay true to yourself. Let your volunteering be an extension of who you are.