Sometimes we never truly realize how much impact a simple act of kindness has on someone. It could be anyone, a family member, a friend or even a complete stranger. Our words and our actions always matter. An act of kindness can radiate from one person to another, creating the domino effect of positivity and kindness. We should not be adding onto the hate, prejudice and negativity but rather opt to spread love, kindness and respect to anyone and everyone. Here are 9 random acts of kindness that you can start doing today:
- Smile
A smile seems like a small and irrelevant gesture. But that could not be more further from the truth. A smile has been scientifically known to release endorphins, a group of hormones, that help with physiological changes within your body. It has been associated with relieving stress and pain, and is a positive mood changer. Smiling is also contagious. Therefore, not only are you aiding in relieving your stress, but you also benefit whomever you smile to, as they may smile back. It’s a win-win situation.
- Open the door for a stranger
Anyone can open a door. It is not a difficult task. But the next time you open a door, look around you for anyone nearby. Instead of opening the door and entering/exiting yourself, why not wait a few seconds and help another person by opening their door. Maybe they are in a rush and need to savor those few seconds, that it would take to open the door. You could, potentially, be benefiting and doing others a favor.
- Help someone carrying a heavy load
We all have had those times where we did not want to make two trips from our car to the house, so we carry all of groceries in both hands. Or the times where we had so much paperwork, that it consumes both of our hands. Whatever the case, if you see someone their hands full or carrying/lifting heavy objects, politely ask if they would like any help. You are helping by literally reducing the weight on their hands.
- Donate (time, funds, goods)
Everyday is a blessing. We all receive blessings from Allah (s.w.t) and sometimes we receive more than what is deemed necessary. With those blessings, let us use what we have gained to help others. It does not have to be just money; it could be time or goods. We could volunteer at shelters and kitchens. We could donate clothes (that we do not wear anymore) or goods (that we do not use anymore). There is a lot we can do to help others without sacrificing much.
- Volunteer
Human interaction is usually undervalued. With the rise of the social media era and the technology era, we forget to look up from our phones and talk to beautiful souls that we encounter on a daily basis. We could volunteer at soup kitchens, shelters or orphanages. When we do volunteer, we should talk to people, share life stories and life encounters. Not only will you be helping society, but you will also get a chance to meet new people and brighten someone’s day.
- Remind the ones you love that you love them
Cherish those who are close to you, those who you love with all your might. Never forget to appreciate how much they mean to you and constantly remind them of how much you care for them. It could be anyone: a spouse, partner, friend, family member or even a pet. It never hurts to remind someone that you love them and no one ever hates being told that they are loved.
- Genuinely compliment someone
Humans are imperfect beings. With that being said, we all have issues with self-esteem self-confidence. Therefore, when we hear an unexpected and genuine compliment from someone, it is enlightening. We tend to think the worst of ourselves, and be our own worst critics. Therefore, with a genuine compliment, we can make someone’s day and even help with long-term confidence.
- Give way to someone
Life is busy. We rush here, there and everywhere. We are always chasing time somehow. With that being said, if you notice someone hectically rushing, whether on foot on in a vehicle, make way for them, if you are not in a rush. Give them the lane, let them walk first or move aside for them: these are all simple things we can do to make it easier on those who are rushing.
- Clean up
Acts of kindness are also applicable for nature and the Earth that we live in. Something we can do to be kind to our Earth is by cleaning up after ourselves. We can do many things: help clean the streets, recycling and conserving our basic utilities, such as water and electricity. Our Earth has endured many things since the brink of human civilization therefore we need to make more of an effort to help conserve it and care for it.
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Sources
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/isnt-what-i-expected/201207/try-some-smile-therapy
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By:
Fatin Najwa binti Daud, is a medical student studying at IMU Malaysia. She is a freelance writer of this blog at Zaahara. Interests include music, art, sports and travel.
-Photos are taken from google images
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