Random Acts of Kindness Day is almost here! This year, Random Acts of Kindness Day is on February 17, just after Valentine’s Day. Many people celebrate the entire week leading up to Random Acts of Kindness Day, and with Valentine’s Day in the same week it’s the perfect opportunity to think about others and show them the love and kindness the world has to offer.
Known for their charge in the quest for kindness, Random Acts of Kindness Day was started by The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation (RAK). In order to celebrate, here’s a list of random acts of kind ideas to get you started:
Say “Please” and “Thank You” – These small gestures can be forgotten in the hustle and bustle of life. Make a conscious effort to say “please” and “thank you” for each interaction.
Hold the Door – Don’t let the door slam in the face of others, hold it open for them and greet them with a smile.
Pay it Forward – If you can afford it, pay kindness forward by purchasing a stranger’s lunch, coffee or small amount of groceries. They’ll feel so special and will most likely continue the gesture.
Sticky Notes – Write some notes of kindness, encouragement and thanks on sticky notes and post them throughout your workplace or home.
Be Kind to the Environment – Perform an act of kindness for the earth. Walk to your errands, conserve water or electricity, make an effort to recycle, or plant a tree.
Listen – Sometimes what another person needs is to just be heard. Take time to listen to someone and brighten his or her day.
Be Kind on Social Media – Post kind messages on your friends’ social media pages. Let them know how special they are to you.
Think Positively – It’s easy to get caught up in negative thoughts, and that can affect our actions. Make a pact with yourself to think positively and see what happens!
Feed Expired Parking Meters – Help someone avoid a ticket by popping a quarter into a parking meter that’s about to expire or has already expired.
Support a Local Business – Big box stores and online shopping are so convenient but can take vital revenue away from small local businesses. Stop into a local shop you’ve never explored and make a purchase! Feeling extra kind? Leave them a positive review online!
Volunteer Your Time – Contact a nonprofit that makes your heart happy and volunteer some of your time to help.
Reach Out – Do you know someone that’s having a hard time or overwhelmed? Reach out to them and offer your assistance. Sometimes people feel like they can’t ask for help but are incredibly grateful when others offer.
Recognize Service – Thank a police officer, firefighter, military member or hospital staff for their work to make the world a better place.
Here are some random acts of kindness with a Valentine’s Day twist!
❤️ Deliver Valentines – Drop off Valentines to a children’s hospital, elder care facility or homeless shelter to spread some much-needed cheer.
❤️ Make a Donation – Instead of purchasing chocolates, flowers or stuffed teddy bears, make a donation to a charity in honor of your Valentine.
❤️ Say It Out Loud – Valentine’s Day often focuses on romantic love, but there is lots of love in the world beyond that you get from a partner. Tell your family and friends you love them and that you’re happy they are in your life.
These are just a few ideas to get you started! Go out into the world and spread kindness in honor of Random Acts of Kindness Day. Don’t forget to tell us about your random acts of kindness and add your kind act, or a friend’s, to our Kindness Counter http://cityofkindness.org/
