In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to be kind to yourself and to others. One thoughtful deed or interaction can make a major impact on someone who may need a helping hand.
“When a friend is going through a tough time, the rest of that friend group can brainstorm something that might help pick him or her up: a massage gift certificate, a cozy pair of PJs, a night’s stay in a hotel. The group can designate one person to purchase and send. The rest of the group can Venmo the point person for their share. It’s a super-easy way to send love (and pool funds for one more impactful gift), especially if your friends live in different places.”— Alex Apatoff, Lifestyle Director
“While heading to my aunt’s for Thanksgiving one year, my family pulled up to a tollbooth with a dollar ready, only to learn that the car ahead of us paid for us, too. The simple gesture made our day, so now we do the same for the cars behind us every time we travel for a holiday. If you have EZ Pass, consider paying for the person behind you in the Starbucks drive-thru!”— Stephanie Petit, Royals Writer
“It might seem simple, but just listening can go a really long way. A lot of times, many of us (myself included!) want to ‘fix’ a friend or family member’s problem, when in reality, they just need us to ‘sit in the s—.’ Saying, ‘I’m sorry you’re going through this — what can I do to help?’ can be invaluable. Validating a loved one’s feelings and helping them get past what they’re going through aren’t mutually exclusive!”— Jen Juneau, Parents Writer
“One of my favorite things to do for my friends who are going through a tough time is to send them a random $5 to $10 on Venmo — on the private setting, of course — and write them a little note letting them know I’m there if they need anything, and to go enjoy a coffee on me. You won’t miss those couple of bucks because that little surprise will really go a long way. Plus, I’ve found that it ends up coming back around in the end.”— Andrea Wurzburger, Features Writer
“A few years ago, I started thinking about just how affected I was when I received compliments from a random stranger. These are such tiny things — ‘I like your shoes’ on the subway or ‘That jacket is awesome’ from the woman walking in the opposite direction down the street — but they have a ripple effect. I didn’t need the validation — I knew that jacket was bomb when I bought it — but it put a bonus, unexpected swing in my step. And it was because of this that I decided: When you think something positive about someone else, say it. Don’t keep it to yourself. Unexpected compliments can make someone’s entire day. So, if someone has a great idea in a meeting, tell them you thought so. If you notice someone working extra hard on something, let them know you noticed. And of course, tell that lady on the train her shoes are killer!”
PEOPLE’s first-ever Kindness Issue is dedicated to highlighting the ways, big and small, that kindness can make a difference and change lives.Click hereand pick up the issue, on stands Friday, Nov. 8, for more stories on the impact of kindness from Julia Roberts,Tiffany Haddishand other stars, as well as everyday people practicing kindness in their communities.
source: people.com
