Want to Make a Difference? Try an Act of Kindness

“A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make trees.” – Amelia Earhart

When I was in eighth grade, my best friend and I saved our money from babysitting and chores to go to a sit-down restaurant and a movie. This was a big deal for us at the time and our parents had agreed to let us go on our own.

We spent a good chunk of time there laughing and talking about whatever eighth graders talk about. As the evening came to a close, we asked for our bill but the waitress let us know another couple had paid for our meal. I still think about that couple’s kindness to this day and it’s a reminder of how the little things matter more than we think they do.

Here are a few ways you can start today.

• Buy a coffee for the person behind you. Mornings are tough; help someone start off on the right foot!
• Make a donation to a food bank or shelter. Whether it’s donating to a cause through your company or something you do quarterly, these are imperative to support the underserved members of our community
• Send “just because” mail to someone. Snail mail has become less frequent but it’s one of my favorite ways to let someone know I am thinking of them.
• Leave a positive review at a local business. For local businesses, these reviews matter! Maybe you have thought about leaving a review but haven’t yet; take the time today.
• Send flowers anonymously. Flowers are mood boosters and sending a small bunch to someone who needs a bright spot will be a fun reminder all week that someone cares.
• Say thanks to a coworker. Yes, you may see them every day but how often do you thank them for being a member of the team or the work they contribute?

Often times it can be easy to skip over little things we could do for others with thoughts like “I don’t have time,” “I don’t have anything to give,” or “it won’t matter that much.” I hope this article challenges those thoughts and encourages you to spread joy to others. Whether you have $5 to spend on a coffee or you donate time or give a compliment, remember this: service doesn’t have to be grand gestures to matter or touch someone’s life.

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By Jillian Bryan, LiveNOW Well-Being Team