25 Easy Random Acts of Kindness

Performing random acts of kindness may be new to you. Maybe you’re not sure where to start. Coming up with ideas can be tough. That’s why today’s blog post is packed full of things you can do to make someone else’s day a little brighter. Some of the activities will cost you nothing and take only a moment of your time. Others will be more in-depth. Choose whatever fits your comfort level and the occasion. Enjoy these examples of random acts of kindness to inspire you.

Hold the door open for the person behind you.
Allow the shopper behind you in the grocery line to move ahead of you.
Check on an elderly neighbor or shut-in.
Donate your old clothes to charity.
Tape change to a parking meter or vending machine.
Give the new employee a tour of your work area or offer to sit with them at lunch.
Volunteer at a nursing home, a homeless shelter, a soup kitchen, your kid’s school, LGBTQ support group, etc.
Adopt a child or family during the holidays to whom you can give gifts.
Send a get-well card to someone, or even a card for no reason whatsoever.
Ask for donations to your favorite charity instead of presents for your birthday.
Smile at someone on the street.
Give an unsolicited, polite compliment. Ex. “That joke was really funny.” “Your proposal at the meeting was spot on.”
Pay for the person behind you in line at the fast food restaurant or drive through.
Let the manager of the store know when an associate gives you exceptional service.
Leave kind notes in the dressing room to encourage body positivity. Ex. “To love yourself right now, just as you are, is to give yourself heaven.” – Alan Cohen
Offer to babysit for parents who really need a night away or to help with the nightly feedings for a new mother.
Clean up the trash in your neighborhood or at your favorite outdoor recreation spot.
Visit a nursing home just to spend time with those who rarely receive visitors or to bring treats for the residents.
Send a note of thanks to someone who’s made a big difference in your life.
Pay for someone’s layaway who hasn’t made a payment in a long while.
Fundraise by participating in a 5K, walk or other sponsored activity.
Shovel the driveway for elderly neighbors or those who may otherwise have trouble doing the job themselves. Mowing lawns and raking leaves are also good ideas.
Mentor a young person entering your profession.
Help someone stranded on the side of the road.
Take the time to listen to someone who is having a bad day

Hopefully, this quick list will inspire you to begin sharing random acts of kindness with those around you. Pick one from the list or come up with an idea of your own. See how it makes you feel.