In the shadow of the recent election, much of our country is in shock and discomfort — and that is OK. It is OK to be nervous or unsure of how our future President-elect will be in office. It is OK to have your own political opinions and voice those opinions, but please do not disrespect others as you do. Let's remember the importance of a simple act of kindness and how it can change someone's day.

1. Hold the door open.

Chivalry isn't dead, but it won't kill you to be a polite human being.

2. Pay for someone's coffee or toll on the highway.

This is a true "day maker"!

3. Just say "Hello."

One of the simplest ways to be kind and inclusive.

4. Compliment someone.

Just a simple, "I love your shoes," "Cool shirt dude," or "Your hair looks awesome" goes a long way.

5. Write a handwritten letter to someone special.

Your mom, dad, or grandparents will all appreciate your thoughtfulness — or text them if you're into that.

6. Put some extra coins in a parking meter if it's close to expiring or expired.

We've all had that moment where just one extra quarter could've saved you from a parking ticket.

7. Purchase a couple small gift cards to a fast food place, and hand them out to homeless people.

Easy way to spread the love and you know it is going to a good cause.

8. Donate clothes to a friend or family member.

They could probably use them more than you think.

9. Smile at someone, because why not.

10. Meet someone new.

It will most likely benefit both of you.

11. If you're not in a rush, let someone cut ahead of you in line.

They will appreciate your sacrifice of a few minutes.

12. Give your friends some of your favorite books.

Maybe they really needed something new to dive into.

13. Leave a good tip for your waitress or barista.

Not many people know the 20 percent tip rule.

14. Give someone a hug.

Most people need it and will never ask, you may want to get consent first though because it could get awkward.

15. Call the people you love.

Take time out of your day to have a real conversation with someone you haven't seen in awhile.

16. Volunteer.

There are probably a hundred different events in your area you could get involved in, just do it.

17. Hold the elevator.

If he's running to it, he's probably late. Don't be the one to make it worse.

18. Tell your partner/spouse what you love about them.

Remind them how much they mean to you.

19. Donate that $1 at the cash register.

It's just a dollar, and it will definitely be going to a better cause than that candy bar you were eyeing in the check-out line.

20. Just be a positive person

Encourage others when they are down. People will love having you around to brighten their day.

21. Be patient, kind, and understand where people are coming from.

Maybe your boss is going through a divorce, he didn't mean what he said. That kid who was rude to you is bullied regularly at school. Your friend isn't just ignoring you, she may have just found out her grandmother is sick. Be patient, kind, and understanding to everything that people are feeling.