When you do something kind for another person, everyone benefits! It can make you feel good to do something nice for someone else. And it can make the recipient of your kindness feel cared for, appreciated, and help lift their spirits. This year, we encourage you to spread love and kindness in all that you do.
Give acknowledgement to everyone. This includes the customer service rep on the phone, doctor’s office staff, checkout clerk, and so on. Mention how you appreciate their service and attention.
Dedicate time each month to do meaningful activities with friends, family and coworkers. If you don’t consciously plan these activities, your schedule can easily fill up with other things like chores, housework and other responsibilities.
Be inclusive of everyone. If you’re in a social situation such as a virtual hangout, on a meeting with your team at work, or supervising your child’s playdate with friends, attempt to engage someone who may seem shy or apprehensive to participate.
Leave little appreciation notes inside your kid’s lunchbox or on your partner’s windshield. Remember to call your parents, just to tell them you appreciate them!
Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Act with empathy, understanding and compassion. Make this a habit before passing judgment or jumping to conclusions.
Truly listen to others and demonstrate understanding during conversations. Show you are listening by asking open-ended questions, providing thoughtful responses, and making strong eye contact.
Take the high road when interacting with those you dislike or disagree with. Try asking them thoughtful questions or doing something nice for them.
Donate what you can, when you can. This can be canned goods to a food pantry, towels to an animal shelter, or your money or time to other organizations. To volunteer or donate locally, visit https://www.volunteermatch.org.
Be kind to yourself, too! Remember to give yourself the same love and respect you share with others.
- Participate in activities to benefit YOUR physical, mental and emotional well-being so you can put your best self forward
- Keep an inventory of all of the things you love about yourself
- Compliment yourself every time you look in the mirror, and each time you do something well, achieve something or feel particularly good about an action you took
- Avoid comparing yourself to others. Focus on yourself, what you’ve accomplished and what you plan to do.
Offering kindness is a simple but effective gesture to help others—and it can help you, too! Be kind in your daily life and throughout the year.
