As the saying goes ‘kindness costs nothing, yet small gestures can make all the difference to someone’s day. Whether that’s helping a stranger with a heavy load or a friend to move house or even assisting a family member with household chores, these small acts can make a big difference. Here we’ve picked out some of the ways you can help to put a smile on somebody else’s face…
1. Tell a colleague they look nice today!
When an office colleague has taken the time to ensure their appearance is on point, warrant this with a compliment. A simple ‘love the dress’, ‘those shoes are great, or ‘you’re looking lovely today will put an instant smile on their face. Such a small compliment can be a big confidence booster too, and it shows how easy it can be to change someone’s day for the better.
2. Help out a family member
From ensuring your grandma’s garden is prepped and ready for summer, to helping your sister or brother with their homework, to washing the dishes or taking the laundry out – these tasks may seem simple, but to someone else, they’re thoughtful (and a welcome break from household chores).
It’s often easy to take our parents and partners for granted too, yet it’s often these individuals that ferry us to and from a variety of destinations, have our dinner on the table every evening, and clean the house when we’re too busy. Acknowledging (and better still) returning these efforts is a great way to show your nearest and dearest how much you appreciate them.
3. Donate to charity
If your wardrobe is bulging at the seams, it’s time for a spring clean. Instead of throwing your unwanted items away, donate them to charity. Even if you no longer need them, someone in need will appreciate them a great deal more than you.
From jumpers to skirts, to shoes, toys, and more, charity shops accept a wide range of items, provided that they’re still in wearable or working condition. Something you no longer love will likely be adored by another. Alternatively, if you’re unable to get to a charity shop, you can donate online or via your local clothes bank instead.
4. Send a friend a gift
Special gifts don’t always warrant special occasions! Instead of waiting for someone’s birthday, anniversary, or Valentine’s Day to roll around, send a friend, family member, or colleague a gift! A beautiful bouquet of blooms is a great idea and is a gift that will put an instant smile on the recipient’s face. From bold, fragrant arrangements to sophisticated, stylish designs, there is a floral display to suit all tastes and styles.
If the recipient is seldom in, due to a busy schedule or heavy work commitments, send them letterbox flowers. These blooms have been designed to slide straight through the letterbox, meaning they’ll be there waiting for them when they return home after a long day.
5. Help a stranger
Acts of kindness don’t have to be reserved for your nearest and dearest, as you can help anyone you please! Whether someone is struggling to open a door or to carry an abundance of shopping bags, cross the road or pay a toll fee, showing up unexpectedly and offering your assistance will not only make their day, it will put a smile on your face.
It’s been proven that being kind to others has a beneficial effect on our own wellbeing too, giving you another reason to help someone out – in case you needed one!
6. Get your chef on
Whether you bake a cake or cook an entire three-course meal, cooking for a friend or loved one is a simple act of kindness and one that is guaranteed to make them feel special. Go the extra mile and choose their favourite dish or pick up a bottle of their favourite wine, pop on the tunes and light the candles. Even if you’re not the best chef, it’s the thought that counts!
7. Buy your friend a cup of coffee
When picking up your morning brew, pick an extra one up for your colleague too. This small act of kindness will go a long way to brightening up their day, and they’ll likely return the favour in the future. If not your friend, buy one for the person juggling several books and bags behind you.
Although simple, these small acts of kindness can change someone’s entire day (and mood). Just knowing someone else is looking out for them, cares, or has taken the time out of their busy day to say ‘hey, you look great, is an instant mood booster. As well as making them feel fantastic, it will make you feel good about yourself too!
Sources: oprah.com, naturalbeachliving.com, skilledatlife.com
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