Guess what? Did you know it’s National Random Acts of Kindness week? Who knew that was even a thing? When I noticed it on my calendar, I thought it was brilliant! There’s nothing wrong with more kindness, and if we have to create a week specifically for that, I support it. And, what better time than the week during Valentines Day!
I had no idea if I was going to write anything for Valentines Day this year. I didn’t want to write posts just to fit in with editorial calendar dates if it wasn’t authentic. If I was going to write anything, it was going to be related to unconditional love, or how to make a world a better place.
Once I realized it was Random Acts of Kindness week, that seemed like a much better fit, and something I’d like to be a part of.
Tweet ThisBelow is a list of 7 ideas for random acts of kindness that we can do this week to make other people feel amazing and special. Make a genuine effort to take the focus off of YOU and let go of YOUR ego. Make someone else smile or cry tears of joy with a random act of kindness each day….
1. Give everyone you come in contact with a compliment: The smallest compliment can make a person’s day. When you’re passing someone on a stroll, or meet up with your friend for dinner, be sure to compliment them. It could be so simple:
- That shirt your wearing brings out the blue in your eyes.
- Your hair looks great today.
- What are you wearing, you smell great?
- or simply: you look amazing!
2. Pay for the person behind in line you at Starbucks: A few weeks ago, I was pulling into the drive through at Starbucks, and someone cut me off. I was pretty annoyed, and probably rolled my eyes or threw my hands in the air in a very non-yogic way. When I got to the window, the barista told me that the person in front of me paid for me and apologized for cutting me off. It was nice to know there are kind people in the world, and it made me feel ridiculous for how I acted. A few weeks later, I strolled in the drive through to pay for my coffee, and the lady told me the person in front of me paid for me, and asked if I wanted to pay for the person behind me. She said, it had been going on for 10 cars already! Of course I did!
3. Contact a friend that you feel disconnected with, and just say you were thinking of them: We all have friends that come and go in our lives. Sometimes when a friend leaves our life for whatever reason, the discomfort or confusion behind it can linger. For whatever reason, even if you feel a little hurt, reach out to just let that person know you’re thinking of them. Here are some examples:
- We haven’t talked in awhile, so I just wanted to reach out and say I hope you’re great!
- I went shopping the other day, and remembered that we used to go shopping often together. I was thinking how much I miss my shopping buddy and think we should do it again soon!
- Hey you! Want to grab dinner soon? Could really just use some friend time, and I’m dying to hear what’s going on with you!
4. Make an effort to listen and be interested in other people, and be genuine about it: One of the biggest takeaways for me from How To Win Friends and Influence People was the lesson that we need to stop being so absorbed in ourselves. So many times we have something to say, and we’re not really listening to the other person. We either interrupt, or we wait for them to stop talking so we can make our point. When you can let go of having to talk about yourself so much, and become a good listener while continuing to ask questions of sincere interest about the other person, it’s a total game changer in relationships and communication. It makes the other person feel cared about, and that’s gotta feel good!
5. Tell someone that’s made a difference in your life, thank you: If you’ve had someone in your life that’s helped you get a job, or talked you through a bad situation, or did something to make a difference – make sure you show appreciation. Sometimes we don’t realize it until after the fact, but the point is, it’s nice to let that person know that it didn’t go unnoticed, and that they are appreciated.
6. Send a handwritten letter to someone: Who writes letters anymore? One of my favorite things about Foodie Pen Pals is that you receive a handwritten note in the mail, not to mention that you also receive food, but the note is my favorite thing about it. It’s so nice to see that someone put in the effort to actually write something, and send it to you in the mail. Then, seeing their handwriting and the choice of paper and packaging gives you a glimpse into the person’s personality that we don’t get through email. It’s special to receive letters.
7. Volunteer: Giving money to charity works, but actually stepping in witnessing that your actions can make change in someones life is rewarding and empowering. Of course, the reason for volunteering shouldn’t be about yourself as much as it’s about making change in the world. It’s a great way to get a new perspective and learn about other people and cultures. In addition to giving money, make an effort to volunteer. Being able to really understand the mission of these charities, and immersing yourself in other communities will open your heart and mind. You’ll grow in compassion and love, and be able to educate others on how to help.
What random act of kindness will you do?
In the comments below, tell me your favorite random acts of kindness story. I want to hear about one that happened to you. One that you remember put a smile on your face and made your day. And, if you have other ideas for random acts of kindness, share those too!
Love and Namaste my friends,
Monica
PS. Check out my old school VDay posts on movies here and date ideas here!
