5 Small Ways of Showing Kindness Everyday
December 5th marks International Volunteer Day, but after a year of pandemic, we’re committing to showing kindness and making every day more thoughtful.
There are plenty of ways for us to expand on showing kindness in our daily lives.
Arguably the only thing better than your morning cup of joe, when it becomes a domino effect of showing kindness. When ordering, tell the barista that you want to pay for the next person in line’s coffee too. The intention is that they, too, will continue to share the generosity as they go about their day. So let that unrivaled sense of goodness warm you up quicker than the caffeine pulsing through your veins.
Pay it forward
Arguably the only thing better than your morning cup of joe, when it becomes a domino effect of kindness. When ordering, tell the barista that you want to pay for the next person in line’s coffee too. The intention is that they, too, will continue to share the generosity as they go about their day. So let that unrivaled sense of goodness warm you up quicker than the caffeine pulsing through your veins.
Give someone your parking spot
Ahh, the great parking lot debacle. In the lead-up to the holidays, tension will be running high. If you’re circling around looking for space, but you’ve got time to spare, pay attention to a driver who could do with a boost. It might be a busy, stressed-out parent with kids in the car, who needs some reprieve, or an elderly person, who needs a spot more urgently than you do. The good karma will come your way - we promise.
Hold the door
One can think that holding the door for the person behind them (or in front) is the bare minimum someone can do, but judging by the number of times the person in front of us has let a door slam in our faces recently, would suggest otherwise. Don’t be that person! It’s the easiest, most basic courteous act you can do, to wait a little longer for the next person.
Car sharing
Particularly if you live in an area where public transport leaves a lot to be desired, offering a lift to someone will probably make their day. Text a friend who doesn’t have access to a car and ask them if you can be their chauffeur for a day so they can get all their errands done, or perhaps ask someone at your job if you can ferry them home instead of letting them take the bus.
Groceries
This year highlighted how the simple act of going out to purchase food can be a stressful and difficult ordeal for those who are immunocompromised. Even without the looming threat of a virus, there are many people who find it traumatic to go and stock up on groceries. Ask around about whether there’s anyone in your area to whom you can provide some help, even if it’s just picking up a handful of essential items once a week. Going out of your way like this is a great way of showing kindness to those closest to us.