Our world today is full of resentment and division. In a world muddled with anger, spreading joy in even the smallest ways is so important. While it may not seem much to you, it could make a world of difference to someone else.
1. Pay for the person behind you in line
line
Whether it's at a Starbucks or a fast food drive-thru, it could make someone's day so much better and really spread some love.
2. Give a compliment
It doesn't take much effort.
Photo by Evan Kirby on Unsplash
You could completely turn someones day around with the littlest compliment. It doesn't even always have to be physical. Telling someone they're killing it at the job they're doing is as good a compliment as any!
3. Donate something
donate
There are so many people in the world that have so much less than you. Find at least one thing, anything, in your house that you don't find yourself ever really using, and give it to someone who will. Whether it be foster homes, homeless shelters, or animal shelters; send it somewhere where it will actually be of good use.
4. Volunteer
an invaluable experience
Photo by Alexandr Podvalny on Unsplash
Whether it's once a week, month, or year, volunteering can make a huge difference in the world, even if you don't think it means anything. Go to the ASPCA, a retirement home, a hospital, anywhere that could use your help. You have no idea how much certain people would appreciate your time.
5. If you see someone struggling, ask if they would like help
help
It can be so stressful to be struggling in public and makes it even worse when people just watch you struggle. If you see someone struggling to open a door, walk, etc., offer your help. Even if they do not accept it, an offer is always appreciated.
6. Write nice notes and leave them random places
I used to find notes like these in bathrooms all over campus. It was such a simple thing, but it would make even the darkest day a little brighter for me. You never know when someone needs a little motivation.
7. Smile at people
Photo by Mason Wilkes on Unsplash
These days, it is so rare to get a smile from a stranger. Everyone is so hostile and guarded, and it can make walking to classes or being in crowds very tense. If you make eye contact with someone, smile at them. Spread some kindness in a world surrounded by hostility.
8. Reach out to someone you haven't talked to in awhile
texting
No matter how close you may have been or how you may have fallen off with someone, it is always nice to know someone was thinking of you. Send a message just letting them know you're thinking of them, they're killing it, and you're always there to help if they need it.
9. Thank everyone that you may overlook daily
thanks
The workers at the dining hall cleaning up your trash and dishes. The mailman/delivery drivers delivering your packages to your doorstep in the freezing cold. The bus drivers that take you where you need to go. There are so many workers that are staples to our daily lives, so we always seem to overlook them and they rarely get the thanks they deserve. Whether it just be by mouth or in a cute, handwritten note, thank someone you think doesn't get enough recognition for their work.
10. Clean up trash
trash
Especially in this generation, our earth is littered with debris from the human race. It may not seem like much, but picking up any trash you find could make a huge difference to our ecosystems. Take a moment and help protect the earth that so readily gives us everything we need for life.
