12 Nov 41 Simple Ways to Show Kindness for World Kindness Day
The holidays are officially upon us! It’s both an exciting time, and a stressful time for many people. And often when people are stressed, they can be ignorant, discourteous, and impolite. Basically they’re unkind– which is ironic considering it’s during a time when the holidays place particular emphasis on this quality.
Kindness often gets shoved to the side this time of year. Think about it. How many news stories have you heard about people being trampled, getting injured, or getting into a fight on Black Friday?
This is why we’re particularly grateful for a less-popular day that’s approaching, but is also very important. World Kindness Day is an international holiday celebrated on November 13–tomorrow!
Kindness Enlightenment
World Kindness Day seeks to “highlight good deeds in the community, focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness that binds us.” Their mission seeks to inspire people and countries all over to create a kinder world. Canada, Japan, Australia, Nigeria, Italy, Singapore, India, and United Arab Emirates observe this day as well.
Kindness is contagious. When you see someone else performing a random act of kindness, something happens within you. Your heart swells, and you have a desire to do something kind for someone else. It’s a quality that can be taught through your example. Just think of all the people you influence every day–especially the little ones. To see the benefits of spending quality time with your children and teaching them kindness, click here.
Benefits of Being Kind
Is kindness learned? Or is it genetic? According to author and ex-scientist, David R. Hamilton, we are genetically wired to be kind. In his book, “The Five Side Effects of Kindness,” he claims that science proves that kindness changes the brain, impacts the heart and immune system, and may even be an antidote to depression. He also shares how kindness makes us happier, improves our relationships, is good for our hearts, slows ageing, and is contagious.
The Jolly Way
Rick Riordan, author of The Battle of the Labyrinth, said, “a kind act can sometimes be as powerful as a sword.” We couldn’t agree more. To help you celebrate World Kindness Day, we’ve compiled a list of simple ways , Jolly Llama-approved, for you to show kindness this year:
- Share some Jolly Llama Sorbet Pops with a friend (Click here to find a carrying-grocer)
- Be authentic and sincere when complimenting people
- Let the person in line behind you go ahead of you.
- Wave to people in your neighborhood
- Leave happy/uplifting messages around the neighborhood
- Babysit for a single mom for free.
- Sit next to someone who is alone.
- Help an elderly neighbor take out the trash or mow their lawn.
- Write your siblings a note about how much you appreciate them.
- Volunteer at a local school, animal shelter, or homeless shelter
- Take the security guard a warm beverage.
- Leave your server a bigger than average tip.
- Be polite and courteous on the road.
- Bring a box of treats to the custodians at school or work.
- Leave a thank you note in the mailbox addressed to the mailman.
- Send an encouraging note to someone struggling.
- Text someone a happy or inspirational message.
- Write a review for a company you love (ahem…wink wink…)
- Send a card/care package to someone serving in the military.
- Hold the door open for someone.
- Speak positively about the things you see around your community in front of your children.
- Do a chore without being asked.
- Be extra polite–saying “please” and “thank you.”
- Share a treat with your child’s bus driver.
- Bake your favorite cookies for a neighbor.
- Praise a parent for their kids’ behavior
- Donate warm coats or blankets to the homeless shelter.
- Call your parents or grandparents and have a meaningful conversation.
- Compliment a cashier at a local store.
- Surprise some friends with dinner.
- Find someone who’s had a bad day and give them a small gift card.
- Go through the drive-thru and pay for the car behind you.
- Praise your spouse for something he/she did well.
- Donate toys and books to a charity.
- Invite a new family in the neighborhood over for some games
- Put together and give away homeless kits.
- Smile at everyone you see
- Leave positive notes in your children’s school lunches
- Strike up a meaningful conversation with a quiet neighbor
- Offer your talent/skill with someone needing help in that area
- Hug someone for 8 seconds
Like they say, “in a world where you can be anything, be kind.” We hope you have enjoyed these fun ideas and feel inspired to spread kindness with those around you.
What does kindness mean to you? How do you plan to celebrate World Kindness Day? Share with us in the comments.
No Comments