If you’re reading this, we already love you! Because the desire to be kinder is one of the most beautiful, amazing life pursuits (yay, you!). By taking small actions to be a little nicer, you’ll not only make the world a happier place but you’ll also soak up all the feel-good benefits of being a good human. We hope these simple and sweet ideas will inspire you to show more kindness to everyone, including you.
30 kind ways to brighten up your days (and everyone else’s!)
1. Return your shopping cart
Embrace your inner Marie Kondo and find joy in putting things back where they belong.
2. Share your favorite vegan recipe
Spread the plant-based love! Need some recipes for inspiration? Check out our Wholesome Culture Cookbook!
3. Take yourself on a date
Dress up and take yourself out to a nice meal or movie night! Recognizing your independence and appreciating your own beautiful company is an awesome (and underrated) way to be kind to yourself. Extra perk: you’ll also likely get seated faster!
4. Listen more intently
It’s so easy to pretend to listen or half-listen. But try to really listen to someone else and give your undivided attention to the person in front of you (without just thinking about what you’re going to say next).
5. Dedicate something to a lost loved one
Whether it’s a yoga practice, a meal, or a thoughtful moment, dedicate something to a loved one who has passed away.
6. Hold the elevator door open for someone
Or any door for that matter. Doing something nice can be as simple as waiting 15 seconds to help someone else out.
7. Buy a stranger in line behind you a cup of coffee
Next time you’re in line at a coffee shop, consider offering to pay for the person behind you. It will surely make their day — and yours, too.
8. Gift someone a plant
Indoor plants = pure joy. They also are shown to boost concentration, enhance mood, and reduce stress. While you’re at it, grab one for yourself and share double the joy!
9. Compliment someone
Say something nice (and genuine) about someone’s outfit, hair cut, shoes, or smile. Want to take it a step further? Give a non-appearance related compliment.
Here are some of our faves:
- I’m always happy when I’m around you.
- You brightened up my day.
- You’re so creative.
- You’re so wise. I learn so much from you.
- You’re such a sincere listener.
- The world would be a better place with more people like you
10. Donate a book to a Little Free Library
Or any spot that accepts used books. Share the love of reading!
11. Wear kindness on your sleeves!
Advocate for kindness through your threads! Check out our fave pieces that share kind vibes, one sweater at a time.
12. Pick up a piece of trash
A classic, always relevant way to be kind to Mother Earth and all beings.
13. Put some change in a parking meter that’s about to expire
With just a quarter, you’ll feel good and save someone else a hefty potential ticket. Also, helping another human out with no recognition is one of the coolest things, ever.
14. Smile and wave
Try to look at your screens a little less and smile a little more!
15. Write a positive Yelp review for a small business you love
Taking a minute to write a few kind words can be hugely helpful for a small business. Pressed for time? Just give a simple five-star rating and you’ll still be using your voice to show support.
16. Call a relative you haven’t spoken to in a while
A grandparent, aunt, second cousin, whoever!
17. Share one of your favorite books with a friend
If there’s a particular book you love, give it to someone you think would also enjoy it. They’ll be touched you thought of them and you’ll feel good sharing something that spoke to your soul.
18. Let someone in your lane, graciously
Be that nice person on the road.
19. Write a handwritten note to someone
With texts, Instagram, and emails, handwritten notes are becoming less and less necessary. But that only makes them that much more special! So, send a regular ol’ card for someone’s birthday or just a little note to say hello. #PenPalsWanted
20. Say thank you to someone who often goes unnoticed
Maybe it’s the sweet barista at your favorite coffee shop, the friendly security guard at your office building, or a kind neighbor who always decorates the most for the holidays. A sweet and simple “thank you for all you do” can truly make someone’s day/month/year.
21. Give YOURSELF three compliments in the mirror
Go!
22. Chat with someone who is on the perimeter
If you’re at a work event, wedding, meeting, whatever, and you notice someone hanging out alone, consider introducing yourself. We’ve probably all been there and will be there again in the future, so think of it as good karma!
23. Hug it out
Of course, hug with permission. But physically embracing someone else with a hug is one of the most human things we can do for each other.
24. Do a chore for someone else
Maybe it’s doing the dishes when it’s your roommate’s turn. Or taking out the trash even though it’s your partner’s regular chore. Do an unexpected little something for someone without expecting anything in return.
25. Go outside and thank the trees
Hike, walk, sit in a park. Just do anything outdoors and take a moment to thank the trees for giving us the air we breathe.
26. Enjoy a digital detox
Be kind to YOU and take 12 or 24 (or 48) hours and step away from the screens. We know everyone has different jobs and responsibilities, but it’s so important to take time to focus on non-digital things (like real people).
27. Participate in a fundraiser
Fundraisers are everywhere nowadays! From Facebook to 5ks, there are tons of ways to get involved in a good cause.
28. Tip!
Give a generous tip to someone who deserves it like a super nice Lyft driver or an energetic waiter.
29. Let someone know you’re thinking about them
There are SO many ways to let someone know they’re on your mind: a simple text, phone call, tag on Instagram, card, funny meme, the list goes on and on. Pick one and you just might make someone’s day.
30. Treat yourself
Do something in the name of self-love, whatever that looks like for you. For one person it could be a bubble bath and face mask for another it could be a vegan cupcake and hot tea. Ultimately, take care of YOU!
Longing for more positive reads?! Same. Here are some of our fave pick-me-up posts!
