Acts of kindness can brighten up someone’s day, often more than we even realize. A simple act, even the smallest of ones, can mean so much to one person and let them know that someone else cares.

Kindness also comes in many forms. From a simple gesture to nice words to a caring deed, there are so many ways we can practice kindness. The way we treat people says a lot about ourself as a person as well. Ensuring we’re treating everyone with kindness, and not just those we personally know, can help pay it forward for the next person and put the wheels of kindness in motion. Along with your friends and family members, don’t forget about the bank teller, the grocery checkout employee, your quiet neighbour or the crossing guard.

Practicing kindness every day will not only brighten up someone else’s day, but it will also put a smile on your own face! Here are some simple acts of kindness to inspire you.

Simple Acts of Kindness for Everyone

• Send a little note with an uplifting message to one of your colleagues “just because”
• Drop off items in need at a local shelter or community house.
• Help someone struggling with heavy bags or groceries. Maybe it’s your elderly neighbour, a person with a physical disability, or a parent struggling to manage the kids and groceries all at once.neighbour, a person with a physical disability, or a parent struggling to manage the kids and groceries all at once.
• Drop off some baked goodies at a friend or neighbour’s home. Who doesn’t lovely freshly baked muffins or cookies?
• Send someone a card or e-card, just for fun.
• Bring in your neighbour’s garbage and recycling bins after the next garbage day.
• Make a meal or go take care of a few loads of laundry for a friend who just had a baby.
• Put some change in a meter if you notice a car is parked at an expired one.
• Write a letter or send an email to someone who inspired you or had a big influence on your life. Whether it’s a teacher, an old friend or a family member, they might have no idea how big of an impact they had on your life.
• Help a mom or dad with a baby stroller. This can be especially tricky when using public transit.
• Leave your favourite book with a note for someone else to find, or pass it onto a friend or co-worker.
• Volunteer at a nursing home. Even if it’s not a frequent occurrence, many residents don’t get visitors very often and a simple chat over tea or puzzle together can completely make their day.
• Hold the elevator for someone.
• Write a list of all the reasons why you love your partner and give it to him or her. You can also do this for a best friend or family member.
• Help your elderly neighbour by mowing their lawn, raking their leaves or shoveling their driveway or walkway.
• Make two lunches and give one away to someone who really needs it.
• Buy lemonade from a child’s lemonade stand
• Refrain from negative self-talk. YOU deserve kindness too :)