Many of us get so caught up in our own lives that it can be easy to forget that simple things can make a big impact on someone else. Even something as minute as smiling at a stranger or paying a compliment can make someone’s day. Or perhaps sending a “just because” gift to someone special in your life to brighten their day. Just think how different the world would be if everyone took a moment out of their day to do something for someone else. Random acts of kindness make the recipient feel better, but they also tend to ripple out to others, spreading kindness beyond the person you originally helped. Plus, performing acts of service for others can make you feel happier and more satisfied in life. Here’s how to do it.
What is a Random Act of Kindness?
A random act of kindness is an unexpected act of helpfulness, most often done for a stranger. It’s an act of servitude you perform to make someone’s day just a bit better — without the expectation of reciprocity or payment of any kind. Instead, its only intention is to bring happiness and joy to others.
These acts of service do not have to be large or expensive to be meaningful. Instead, they’re intended to be small gestures that ripple outward, creating more kindness and love in the world.
Top 10 Random Acts of Kindness
If you’re looking for some inspiration to spread kindness, you’ve come to the right place. Here are ten random acts of kindness that can help you spread happiness:
Surprise someone with a gift delivered right to their doorstep for no other reason than to put a smile on their face. Consider our Bundle of Cheer. It includes an arrangement packed with chocolate-dipped pineapple stars and daisies, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a variety of fresh fruit, along with a box of chocolate-covered strawberries, apple slices, and banana bites. Or, opt for our Fruit Bouquet & Premium Cookies Gift Bundle that includes both a fresh fruit bouquet and an assortment of freshly baked cookies.
2. Pay for a Stranger’s Coffee
Pull up to the drive-through window and tell the cashier that you wish to pay for the order placed by the person behind you. You may even start a chain reaction, where each car pays for the one behind it and then carries it forward.
3. Bake Cookies for the Elderly
Call up your local nursing home and ask if you can bring in some homemade cookies for the residents. The cookies will make their day just a little bit sweeter. While you’re there, take the time to listen to the residents’ stories and make some new friends.
4. Donate Blankets to the Animal Shelter
Animal shelters are always in need of supplies. Donate your used towels and blankets to make the shelter feel a bit more like home to scared cats and dogs. You can even go above and beyond by donating toys and food as well.
5. Write Letters to the Military
Write a handwritten letter or message of appreciation and support for our military. Let our servicemen and women know you’re thinking about them and that you care. If you’re having trouble finding the right words, just let them know you’re proud of them.
6. Shovel a Neighbor’s Driveway When it Snows
We all know how annoying it is to shovel your driveway before heading off to work. Instead of just shoveling your own driveway, do it for a neighbor as well. When your neighbor wakes up, she’ll leave for work with a smile.
7. Pay a Stranger’s Library Fees
We’ve all been late bringing back a book to the library. The next time you visit the library, ask the librarian if you can pay the late fees on behalf of another patron. The next time they come in to check out books, they won’t be burdened with fines.
8. Give Out Drinks on a Hot Day
Keep some cold water or lemonade on hand to hand out to neighbors or passersby on hot days. The same goes for mail carriers and delivery drivers. They’re likely in need of some hydration after long days spent working in the heat.
9. Return Someone’s Shopping Cart
Many people leave their shopping carts in the parking lot, which causes aggravation for store employees and customers alike. Instead of just returning your own cart to the return, offer to return someone else’s cart as well.
10. Clean Up the Beach or Park
Take the time to clean up litter on the beach or your favorite park. Even better, you can gather a few friends and host a beach cleaning party. You can all bring plastic bags and some gloves and get to work.
Whether it’s a treat delivered to someone special’s doorstep or an act of service for a stranger, these random acts of kindness will help you spread joy and happiness wherever you go. If you run out of ideas, just think of any way you can make someone’s day just a little bit better and do it.
