^{by Sharon Quercioli}

This year has been difficult for most of us. Instead of wallowing or focusing on the negative, I’m of the mindset that we should be proactive in practicing kindness. Kindness can be shown in so many different ways. Below, I’ve listed ten ways you can practice or offer up some kindness in the world. 

They’re varied in what is necessary to accomplish them. Some only take seconds and can be done throughout the day, others take time, money or dedication. Do what you can, when you can, and try to incorporate any number of these into your daily routine.

1. Smile

I had originally written, “Smile at a stranger,” but you shouldn’t just limit your smiling to strangers! Smile at everyone. It is the smallest act of kindness on this list, but it is also one of the most impactful—even if it doesn’t feel like it does much. Even if the stranger doesn’t smile back at you, you never know what this miniscule act of kindness can do to. Perhaps the stranger was having a rough day, and your smile reminded them that things may get better. Maybe your smile can brighten a stranger’s day. Or your smile can serve as a small token of appreciation for all the good things that have happened today.

2. Use Your Manners

We get so caught up in our own lives that our basic manners can slip our minds at times. Saying thank you, please, and you’re welcome are just some small examples of minding your manners. Don’t forget to think of others first (give your seat on the bus to an elderly or pregnant passenger), pass along good vibes, and be caring toward others. 

It is also important to:

• Apologize when you’ve done something hurtful.
• Say Excuse me.
• Ask other people questions about themselves.
• Look people in the eye when you’re speaking to them.
• Compliment others as much as you can.
• Share your blessings.
• Follow the Golden Rule: Treat people the way you want to be treated.

3. Send Some Snail Mail (I love this one!)

This includes handwritten thank you cards and appreciation cards. It is always a wonderful feeling when you get handwritten notes and receive letters and cards in the mail. These days it is so easy to just send a text message or email. Taking the extra effort to handwrite a card or letter can mean so much. It also serves as something that the recipient can treasure and look back on for a long time. One of my favorites when my grand nieces and nephews draw pictures and send them to me. Warms my heart!

4. Call a Loved One

As I said before, sending a text or email is so convenient that any extra effort is always appreciated. This also works with phone calls. Take a few minutes to call a family member or a loved one. It is always nice to hear someone’s voice. Especially these days, during the pandemic, when people are socially isolating themselves. It can be difficult to be so far away from everyone.

5. Try A Gratitude Journal

Gratitude journals have a lasting effect on people, and by that I don’t mean others. I mean you. When you start a gratitude journal, you start to see good things all around you, and you will be more appreciative of the little things. This can subtly or drastically change your personality. Some people notice that they are more optimistic. Others note that they smile more and aren’t so focused on the negative. Try it out for yourself.

6. Offer Your Help to Elderly Neighbors

Helping others is such an important way to show kindness, especially when you are able to help people who either ask for it, or who look like they are having issues. One example is how I help my elderly neighbor across the street. One day as I brought out my trash can to the curb, I saw her struggling with hers. I quickly ran across the street and offered my assistance. When I go to the grocery store, I also shop for her. She is so appreciative.

It is true that some people might take offense to you immediately assuming that they need your help. That is why it is a good habit to practice your manners and leave your assumptions at the door. Ask politely if someone would like a hand, and don’t insist if the person rejects your offer. 

7. Pay it Forward

I like to be able to give when someone never expects it. Some little ways of paying it forward … give extra money for the next few cars going through polls on turnpike, paying for lunch for the next person in line. The one that is so powerful for me paying for groceries that someone is counting every item and their money and taking items off because they don’t have enough money to pay for them. It’s the little things in life that make a difference.

8. Learn and Educate Yourself

One of the ways we can stay kind is by staying informed. Learning new information and the history behind things can be two of the best  ways to be kind to ourselves. Unkindness and anger can stem from ignorance. 

9. Donate Your Time, Money, (or Donate Blood)

We are often too busy to donate our time. Some of us have been too affected by the lockdown to donate money. Others are sick and aren’t able to donate their blood. While there may be times that we might be all three of these things, we can normally find a little extra time or money to give to a cause we feel strongly about or to donate our time. 

10. Forgive the Little Things

This might seem easy but is definitely one of the most difficult things on this list. When we are in the moment, feelings of anger can overwhelm us. However, think of it this way…

Have you ever had a bad day? Maybe you’re in such a rush that you accidentally cut someone off in traffic. Perhaps you cut in front of someone in line. Maybe you said something that could have been misinterpreted as rude. We’ve all been there. Whenever I’m in a spot like that, one thing that would make me feel better would be for someone to cut me a little slack. 

That is why it is important to forgive others when those things happen. If someone cuts you off, try to forgive them and wish them the best instead of lingering on it. 

So please try a few of these things or share some of your things to Practice Kindness.