How can you acknowledge world kindness day?
11/08/2023
In a society where mental health is spoken about more than ever, when was the last time you stopped and smiled at a stranger? World Kindness Day may seem like just another social media days in the calendar, but it's origins come from wanting to make the world a kinder place. Set up in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, this year marks their 25th year!
In today’s fast paced world, World Kindness Day serves as a crucial reminder to slow down and consider others needs and feelings. By demonstrating kindness in our daily lives, we can create a ripple effect of positivity that extends our immediate circles.What will you be doing?
We've previously spoken to charities on how they’re making an impact to their local community with the work they do. This year, we're sharing some ideas for individuals to spread kindness in their communities. Here are some simple things you could do to acknowledge this year’s event:
- Practice self-kindness. To project kindness onto others, you must first be kind to yourself. Even if it’s just for one day, acknowledge World Kindness Day by starting with yourself.
- Random acts of kindness. When queuing for your morning or afternoon coffee, make the person next in line day by offering to pay for their drink. This is known as "paying it forward". Not only will they be grateful but you could be the one and only person they speak to that day.
- Donate those items. Surprise your local group with donations of items that you no longer need. With the cost-of-living crisis continuing and Christmas being round the corner, now could be the perfect time to donate those unwanted items that’ve been in your car since your Spring clean. Your unloved items could be the treasure that makes someone’s Christmas.
- Spreading kindness online. Use social media to talk about what you have seen or what you have done yourself on world kindness day. Your post could inspire someone else who was thinking of doing something but needed that little nudge of confidence.
- Volunteer at your local group. No matter how much (or little) time you can offer, they’ll be grateful for an extra pair of hands. Whether you’re getting stuck in to plan future events, or helping to make a brew, see what you can do to help.
- As we celebrate and acknowledge World Kindness Day this year, remember that being kind is not just for one day. Embracing and practising kindness on a daily basis can contribute to a brighter and more compassionate future for everyone.
