All it takes is a look around to see that the world (and the people in it) could use a little help sometimes. The thing is, it's not always easy to know what to do to make a difference. Fortunately, you don't have to change careers or give away all your possessions to change things for the better. There are actually a bunch of little things you can do to make the world a kinder, gentler place. Change starts with you!
Smile at Someone You Don't Know
It might seem a little corny, but a smile can really change someone's day for the better. Just like that fridge magnet says, a smile really is contagious. When you smile at people (we're talking a quick smile here, nothing creepy), you send a little positivity out into the world. That person may just smile at someone else or do something kind for a friend or family member as a result.
Do a Little Favor for Your Neighbor
Speaking of little things, you can change the world by starting in your own neighborhood. Look around for small jobs you can do to make your neighbors' lives a little easier. Shovel a sidewalk or wheel in their trash bin before the wind blows it over. Mow the lawn when they're out of town or walk the dog if you know they're not feeling well. The world benefits because you're building a sense of community.
Plant Flowers Where Others Will Enjoy Them
Another way to build up your own community is to bring a little joy to people walking or driving by. Instead of just planting flowers by your house, plant some bulbs or sow some seeds near the sidewalk or road. That way, when the flowers come up, you'll be making the whole neighborhood happy.
Talk About Kindness With Your Kids
If you have kids, you already know they're the future. You can change the world by teaching your children to be kind. We totally get that it's not always easy (especially when the world hands out disappointment or cruelty on the playground or in the lunchroom), but helping your kids define themselves as kind people can make a difference. Start by praising kind behavior to siblings, pets, and anyone else. You can also talk about how to react with kindness when someone is being bullied or when another kid seems lonely.
Pick Up Trash Anywhere You See It
It might not seem like a huge deal, but seeing trash when you look around at parks and bike paths can reduce your enjoyment of those places. And it's bad for the planet, too. One simple way to make the world a better place is to carry a trash bag and gloves to pick up any litter you see. It's a tiny change that can have a major impact.
Compliment a Stranger
A simple compliment is powerful, especially when it comes from someone you don't know. Giving a genuine compliment is really just about saying what you notice out loud. If you like the check-out person's earrings, tell them. If you're happy with the service at a restaurant, tell the server (and leave a nice tip, too). Bringing a little joy to someone's life in the form of a compliment can improve their day.
Not sure how to give a compliment? You can avoid being awkward or creepy by sticking to their jewelry, hair, smile, or something (non-sexy) that they're wearing. You can also compliment something someone says or does like being really friendly or helpful.
Be Kind to Other Drivers
You can spread kindness and make the world better by being nice to other drivers, too. Driving dynamics can be pretty weird. Otherwise perfectly nice and friendly people can turn into rude maniacs behind the wheel. You can counteract this by going out of your way to be nice. Let people in when you're in traffic. Wave someone through and give them your turn if you've got time to wait. Give a wave of thanks when someone does something nice for you on the road. It all adds up.
Really Listen to the People in Your Life
One of the biggest things you can do to make the world better is really listening to the people in your life. Tune out all distractions and pay attention when someone is talking to you. Let the person know you're listening, too. Nod and respond. Ask questions. Even follow up a day or two later to see how things are going. This really matters in your close relationships, since people who feel heard and seen are happier and more helpful to others.
Little Kindnesses Make a Big Difference
Making the world a better place doesn't have to involve huge commitments and changes. It's just about starting small and being consistent. Your little actions can pay off, and creating joy and spreading kindness can echo in unexpected ways.
