Too many times we forget the impact that simple gestures can make – a kind word, a lending ear, a comforting hug, or a warm and simple smile. We often forget that these simple things actually have the power to turn lives around and make someone’s day brighter. This is exactly why National Random Acts of Kindness Day is being celebrated – to encourage everyone to spread kindness.
National Random Acts of Kindness is celebrated every February 17. It first originated in 1995 in Denver, Colorado and in 2004, spread to New Zealand. The idea behind this celebration is to make the world a little brighter and better through little and simple kind gestures, words and actions. It isn’t too much to do, really, but the way it impacts other people is what gives us the most rewarding feeling.
While National Random Acts of Kindness Day is observed on only one day of this month, sprinkling kindness around is something you can do the whole year! As to how you will do it is entirely up to you.
Unique ways for you to celebrate National Random Acts of Kindness Day
Leave an anonymous sticky note for your co-workers
We never know when someone’s having a bad day or when they need comfort the most. Putting up an anonymous note with kind, encouraging words can go a long way in making someone’s day a little better.
Compliment a stranger
It isn’t every day that we get to hear compliments from the people we know, let alone from strangers. It would surely make a person’s day when you give them a random compliment. Noticed someone wearing a nice pair of shoes? Tell them about it. Or if you’re happy with the service you received from the staff in the café, compliment and thank them for it.
Donate some groceries to your local food bank
The act of sharing always feels more rewarding than getting something for yourself. Share some food and grocery items with those who need them most.
Greet a person standing next to you in the elevator
A simple good morning can go a long way. Why don’t you greet the person next to you in the elevator? Also, don’t forget to flash a warm and friendly smile when you do.
Surprise someone with some homemade meals or goodies
It is true that food binds people together. When you feel like working around the kitchen and making some delicious homemade treats or goodies, don’t forget to share. Surprise your co-worker or a neighbor! They’d be happy to dig into a delicious treat prepared with love.
Take time to thank the people you love
Appreciating or thanking the people we love is something we often forget. Make it a point to thank them. Let them know how glad you are for having them around. Leave them a note, give them a quick call, shoot them an email or better yet, say it in person. You’ll never know how much a simple “thank you” will mean to them.
Reconnect with an old friend
People come and go, but there are a few friends who will always stick around. Maybe you have friends whom you haven’t seen or talked to in a while. Give them a ring and ask how they have been doing. Try to catch up or invite them out so you could spend quality time together.
Donate dog or cat food to the animal shelter
Whether or not you’re someone who loves animals, donate some dog and cat food to the animal shelter near you. Most animal shelters rely on donations. It makes a huge difference when you can extend some help to animals in need.
Run an errand for a busy family member
Got a little spare time? Use it to run an errand for a busy family member. They will be grateful for the kind gesture.
It is nice to think that National Random Acts of Kindness is being celebrated every year as a holiday. However, sprinkling kindness everywhere you go does not require a holiday. It is something we can do daily to make a difference. Brighten someone’s life without expecting anything in return.
