Practice Kindness Every day!
Spreading kindness costs so little if anything!
As role models to children both our own and other children in our lives, it is important we show them that no random act of kindness too big or too small. Maya Angelou said it best when she said, “At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” Let’s take the month of April [as well as the rest of the year and beyond] to really show your compassion and kindness in this crazy world that we are living in right now. Being kind to people doesn’t have to cut into your budget, in fact, you do not have to spend money at all.
Here are 4 ways to show kindness and compassion while staying within a budget.
Doubling dinner: While making dinner, make enough to share with someone in your life. Not only will your neighbor, family, or friend appreciate the kind gesture, but it will also make them feel special because someone thought of them.
Let them cut the line: Imagine you’re in a busy grocery store, convenience store, or department store with 3 items, and the person in front of you, who has a cartload of groceries, lets you go ahead. Wow, right? Try this out too. You have no idea what this could mean to an elderly person, a busy mom who has some restless children with her, or someone who looks like they “just don’t have time for this”. You may not think this small act of kindness will matter, but watch their reactions and smile knowing that you are the reason.
Pay it forward: Paying it forward is one of my favorite ways to spread kindness. Whether it is at the coffee shop or a fast-food drive-thru at lunchtime. Paying for a person’s coffee or lunch makes me feel better, knowing that it will put a smile on their face—It’s like a little surprise for them. Hopefully, they will continue the trend, by paying for the person behind them which will demonstrate that kindness exists in many places.
Compliments: Extending a compliment to a stranger or someone you know is a great way to spread kindness without tapping into your budget. Giving someone a compliment can be as easing as telling a coworker that you like their new haircut. The next time you are out and about, try complimenting a stranger in some way. Maybe you like their purse, the shirt they are wearing, or something they are carrying. Giving a compliment will put a smile on a stranger’s face. It could just be what they needed to turn their gloomy day around.
Regardless of your budget, showing kindness towards others can have a real and lasting impact on a person, especially if that person is having a bad day. We never know what someone is going through and a simple compliment or act of kindness can go a long way. I would love to hear about the way you showed kindness this month. Send me an email at Creynolds@newdimensionsfcu.com. Additionally, if you are under 18 years old and want to participate in our National Credit Union Youth Month activity that showcases your Random Acts of Kindness on Facebook, follow this link to learn more.
And remember kindness comes from within!