11 ways to be kind to others

As the saying goes, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” It really is one of the best things you can be. And what is more, being kind is easy enough to do and need not cost you a single penny. We are all too aware of friends and families who struggle, for a myriad of reasons, and very often, your decision to be kind, might not only help to cheer them up, but it could be pivotal to them getting through that day. Whether it is strangers or friends and family, it is great to spread kindness to the people that surround you. So here are eleven ways in which you can spread some joy to others. Being kind is not just limited to World Kindness Day, so why not try one of these out for yourself today?

1.      Consider what you say before you speak

This is great advice for all areas of your life: always be kind when you speak. The old saying ‘sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me’ is just not true. Consider whether your words are likely to hurt someone, intentionally or unintentionally, before you say them. This goes for social media as well. It is easy to be unkind when you are safely behind a screen and a keyboard but always worth considering how your words might affect someone. If you think that your words could be perceived as unkind in any way, then simply do not send that text or tweet.

2.      Give someone a compliment

How great does it feel when someone says they like your hair, coat or bag? Kind words cost nothing at all and give you a little spring in your step, as well as a confidence boost. If there is something that you like about someone, then tell them.

3.      Surprise someone with a visit or phone call

A surprise visit, phone call or text shows someone that you are thinking about them. In the UK, 45% of adults feel occasionally, sometimes or often lonely¹ so it is great to offer people your friendship and support. Older people are more likely to suffer from loneliness so be sure to check up on grandparents and elderly neighbours.

4.      Pay for someone’s coffee

If you can afford to, when you are getting your morning coffee, why not pay for the next person’s in the queue as well? This random act of kindness will really make their day and give you a good feeling to boot!

5.      Smile at strangers

It is difficult to be kind if you are always looking down. Instead of walking round with a neutral expression on your face, why not smile at every one you pass? You are bound to get a few smiles back as it is so infectious - which will increase your happiness as well as theirs! If you are feeling extra friendly, you might even say hello or good morning to the people that you pass! Not only will it pass a little bit of kindness on to others, but you will also feel good, as smiling helps you to keep a positive mindset.

6.      Help a colleague

Perhaps one of your colleagues is struggling with a deadline or would like to learn something that you are already well-versed in. Why not help them out with five minutes of your time?

7.      Praise a colleague

Speaking of work, when someone has done a good job, make sure you tell them they have. It is always lovely to hear that you have done well! If possible (and it won’t cause embarrassment), raise this in front of the rest of the team or other co-workers as well.

8.      Hold the door open

This quick and easy act is a great way to pass on some kindness. You can either open the door and let someone walk through it first or, if that seems a little outdated, why not walk through the door first and then ensure that you hold it open for the person behind you?

9.      Give your time or money

There are lots of charities that need help so if you can afford to, donate some time or money to one (or some!) of them. There are approximately 168,000 registered charities in the UK alone² so you are bound to find one which fits in with your interests and passions.

10. Let someone go in front of you at the supermarket

If you have got a big trolley of shopping and the person behind you had just a few items, let them go first. They will not hold you up by much and they will really appreciate your kind gesture.

11. Give someone your car park ticket

Paid for all day car parking but leaving early? Then why not pass on your your car park ticket to someone just arriving? You have already paid for it and so it will not go to waste and will save the other person a couple of pounds. You might just make someone’s day!