Blog
7 Ways to Practice Kindness this World Kindness Week
Earlier this year, Canada became the first country in the world to pass legislation for making the third week of February National Kindness Week. According to the Bill, the purpose of this week is to “improve the health and well-being of Canadians by encouraging acts of kindness, volunteerism and charitable giving.” This year was the inaugural year for National Kindness Week and now Canadians can participate with the rest of the world in celebrating World Kindness Week from November 7 to 13.
Here are 7 easy ways to celebrate and practice being kind…
- Pay a compliment
When you see someone looking fantastic, or when someone says something witty or funny, compliment them. Your one compliment can make someone’s day and who knows, maybe they will pass on the kindness too.
- Do an errand for someone
If you know someone is going through a hard time, or is incredibly busy, offer to do a task for them. This could be offering to take their dog for a walk, babysit for them, or bring them food. If you see someone having a hard time carrying their grocery bags, extend a hand and help out.
- Pay for someone’s meal or drink
A lot of people have started to pay for a meal or drink for someone who is behind them in the drive-thru. It is a simple act but can go a long way in adding kindness to the world.
- Smile at, and greet, people
A smile can change the way you feel, and how others feel too. When you smile or offer a kind hello or a greeting, it can make a big difference. Smiling doesn’t cost you anything, but it is one of the most precious gifts you can offer to anyone.
- Check in with elderly neighbours
If the pandemic has reminded us of anything, it is how our elderly are often the ones who end up suffering when there is a lack of kindness and patience. Check-in on elderly neighbours and to make sure they have everything they need. Sometimes, just having a conversation makes a difference and if you can offer that for even a few minutes, you will have made someone’s day!
- Volunteer your time for a non-profit organization
There are so many non-profit organizations doing fantastic work running food banks, women’s shelters, homeless shelters, fundraising, providing education, etc. You can be a part of any of these causes and help out with whichever cause is close to your heart. Giving is considered to be one of the biggest ways of showing kindness and sometimes volunteering is one of the best ways you can give.
- Kindness starts at home
It is true, before turning outside, first take a look at how you can be kinder to people in your life. Ask the people in your life what they need and how you might extend kindness. They might not always feel comfortable asking for help, but it doesn’t hurt to ask if you can help to make life better or easier for them. Start practicing kindness at home.
Remember, this isn’t meant to be a one-and-done kind of celebration. Take this opportunity to turn kindness into a normal part of your routine. A little bit of kindness can go a long way.