by Erica Luna
When was the last time someone was kind to you?
Maybe a friend listened to you when you needed support, a stranger helped carry your heavy bags, or a colleague cheered you on before your big presentation. These moments remind us of the powerful impact kindness can have in our lives.
Today, let’s remember and celebrate World Kindness Day. Since 1998, this global event has inspired countless acts of compassion, both big and small.
Research shows that kindness isn’t just heartwarming—it actually boosts our physical, mental, and emotional health. Another recent study also highlights that positive interactions can reduce stress and anxiety.
In a world filled with distractions, a small act of kindness can brighten someone’s day—and sometimes even change their entire life. It gives us renewed hope and inspires us to pass that on.
The good news is that you don’t need to be a superhero to make a difference. Here are five simple ways you can lend a helping hand:
- Be an active listener. By showing genuine interest in what matters to someone, you acknowledge their presence and help ease any loneliness they may feel.
- Make others feel welcome. A warm smile, a simple introduction, or inviting a newcomer to join you at a social event can turn an awkward moment into a new friendship.
- Give a sincere compliment. You can boost another person’s self-esteem by recognizing their strengths and talents. Your words will make them feel valued, which inspires them to keep being their authentic self.
- Lighten someone’s load. Consider grocery shopping, washing the dishes, and picking up the trash for your parents or significant other. Aside from having a clean space, doing these tasks will allow them to rest or have more time for their hobbies.
- Volunteer for a cause. Even with a busy schedule, you can make a difference. TheOneHourProject’s flexible model allows you to give just an hour of your time each week to help organizations with tasks like digital marketing, leading workouts, or graphic design for nonprofits. Check out opportunities here:
• Creative Volunteers
• Climate Hack
• AlterCOP
Author and activist Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Imagine the difference you could make by being kind—sometimes, just an hour is all it takes to make someone truly feel seen and heard.
