November 13th is World Kindness Day!
In honor of this, I thought it would be really cool to talk about some easy and simple ways that we can be kind as we go about this special day. Use them everyday for that matter – you can!
But first, let me ask what does being “kind” mean to you?
To me, being kind means to be sensitive and compassionate to others. It does not mean being horrible to someone “just because you can.” It means having empathy toward all. It means having empathy for yourself. It doesn’t mean being a doormat. Overall, it means acknowledging what’s around you and noticing the effect those vibes have on you and your surroundings.
Kindness is bigger than we are.
Let’s prove it with some fun ways to celebrate World Kindness Day!
- Make use of Venmo: I love to do this with my long distance family and friends. I love sending them an occasional ten bucks or so (when I can) for them to do whatever they wish with it. It lets them know I’m thinking of them, and is just enough for them to snag a treat to get them through the day. You can do it in seconds, and they’ll appreciate it.
- Look up and smile: You’d be amazed at the impact just looking at someone and smiling at them has. Try it when you’re out and about instead of looking down or into your phone!
- Let someone else ahead of you in line: This is a great way to acknowledge others, and to help them get through a busy day!
- Don’t be a dick: This one is my personal favorite. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard someone say, “Eh, I was just screwing with them!” or “I messed with them because I could.” How about we not do that? Especially “just because we can.”
- Pay it forward: You know what I’m talking about! I love when a “pay it forward train” starts at a restaurant or drive thru. Start one!
- Share candy or gum: First of all, if someone refuses gum that’s a huge mistake. Always accept gum when it’s offered. Your breath (and those who come into contact with it) will thank you. Sharing food or whatever is in your bag is a kind gesture for sure.
- Hold the elevator door: You’ll be… what… 30 seconds late, maybe, and help someone else out instead? It’s worth it.
- Treat yourself: I don’t necessarily mean a spa day. I mean working out the garbage in your life that’s holding you down. Toxic relationship? Let it go. Correcting a bad habit? Now is the time to go for it! It’s important to be kind to yourself on this day too.
- Help someone physically struggling: Someone can’t reach that item on the top shelf at the grocery store? Help them reach it if you can! You’ll both keep your day moving that way, and they’ll appreciate the help.
- Hold any door for someone around you: My husband is an ace at this. It’s just a nice thing to do. It acknowledges other people’s existence.
- Gift someone something that connects them to you: We talk about social media being an awesome place to be authentic, but why not do it in real life too? Show someone your favorite album (or favorite anything). Help them get to know you, acknowledge them, and I bet you’ll learn about them too. Anyone can appreciate your bringing them into your world for a little bit.
- Be patient: Being patient with anyone while they’re serving you or someone else is showing them grace. It’s a kind thing to do. We could all show each other more of it.
- Check in on your loved ones: We just don’t do this enough. Give them a call or text today if they’ve been on your mind!
Those are things that I’ve noticed help others. What do you think. Would you use any of these today?
