This time of year is known for grand gestures, expensive gifts, glitz and glitter, but is that really what the holidays are all about? Your schedule is probably jam packed with parties, gift exchanges and weekends at the mall. Don’t get me wrong, mine is too, but I also try to take a step back, be thankful and do what I can to extend kindness to others.
As a new parent, I find myself very aware of other people and their actions. Wondering if they realize that they just let a door slam in someone’s face or that they didn’t make eye contact with someone ringing them up at a store because they were on their phone.
It’s important to not let yourself get into the rut of feeling like you can’t give enough to make a difference so you don’t give at all. So, this is your challenge should you choose to accept it.
I challenge you to do a good deed every single day this month. The only catch is that is has to be something you wouldn’t typically do. If you always hold doors for people that doesn’t count. If you’re the person who hugs everyone – find something else.
The point is really to remember that regardless of your beliefs or holiday traditions, you can make a difference in someone’s life. Every single day. And trust me when I say, if you make the effort, the reward is huge. Oh, and don’t feel like you have to stop at the end of December. Kindness is welcome all year round.
Need a little help? Here are some ideas to get you started.
- Compliment a stranger
- Open a door for someone pushing a stroller (trust me on this one)
- Buy the coffee for the person behind you at Starbucks
- Send a card to a friend you haven’t seen in a while (Not an email. Go to the store. Buy a card. Find a stamp and mail it.)
- Offer to help a friend with a project they are working on
- Pick up the tab when out to lunch with a friend
- Take the dog for a walk, in the snow, when it’s freezing cold (pets deserve kindness too)
- Leave a note for or send a text to someone you love saying you hope they have a great day
- Bring breakfast into the office
- Give a hug (or an extra one) to someone who needs it
- If you live in a snowy climate, shovel your neighbors’ sidewalk after you’re done with yours
And now some more traditional ones….
- Give a few extra dollars to the folks ringing the bells outside of stores
- Donate to your favorite charity
- Volunteer at a local food pantry or soup kitchen
- Volunteer to distribute gifts/sing carols at a local hospital or nursing home
