By Beth Pierce

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”

—The 14th Dalai Lama.

Kindness benefits our emotional wellbeing and improves our overall happiness.

Studies show that performing random acts of kindness also increases our longevity and boosts heart health.  Acts of kindness can also boost feelings of confidence and optimism. They may also encourage others to repeat the good deeds they’ve experienced themselves – contributing to a more positive community.

• What was the last act of kindness that you received? How did it make you feel?
  
•  Now, think of the last act of kindness you offered? How were you kind to someone else and how did it make you feel?

I am kind most all the time, is that the same as Random Acts of Kindness?

This goes beyond being kind, it is actually selfless acts, both large and small, that are committed unexpectedly, without prompting and with no apparent ulterior motive.

A random, unexpected kind gesture not only lifts others up, but you as well. Check out these great ideas on how to be a “Bucket Filler” from a great book by Tom Rath, How Full Is Your Bucket?

Challenge yourself…how many can you do this weekend? Get the rest of your family involved too! 

Here are some ideas:

• Give an unexpected compliment.
• Let someone cut in front of you in line.
• Slow down so someone can merge in front of you in traffic.
• Let someone else take that primo parking spot.
• Buy a warm meal for someone in need.
• Help someone struggling to carry their grocery bags.
• Stop to assist someone who looks lost.
• Say something encouraging to a parent who’s struggling with rambunctious kids in a restaurant or grocery store.
• Offer to return a stranger’s grocery cart.
• Pick up a piece of litter on the street and throw it out.
• Pass along a compliment to a service worker’s boss.
• Write a great online review for a restaurant you love.
• Pay for the meal of the people at the next table.
• Give an extra tip, write an encouraging note along with it.
• Smile at someone who looks sad.

“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” —Princess Diana.

Let’s spread some kindness into the world!