25 Random Ways to Show Kindness

Tune your mind to all things kind.

By: Allie Holcomb King

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Have you ever noticed the contagious nature of kindness? When someone goes out of their way to show kindness just because, it spurs others to do the same. It’s a beautiful domino effect that can shift an entire atmosphere from negative to positive. The benefits of kindness are actually scientifically proven! Bring a dose of happy to your slice of the world by participating in Random Acts of Kindness Week, happening now, and Random Acts of Kindness Day, on Feb. 17 (And then keep the kindness going in the days, months and years to come!). Check out these 25 ideas to get started.

1: Give your attention.

One of the easiest ways to show kindness is by being present, physically and mentally. Put your phone away, and give people your full attention when you’re with them. Be intentional about eye contact, and share the gift of a smile.

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Two women knitting

Photo by: John Lund/Drew Kelly

John Lund/Drew Kelly

2: Bake for your neighbor.

This age-old neighborly act is a simple way to let neighbors know you’re friendly.

Clambake Blueberry Pie

Dessert Recipes for the Beginner

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3: While you're at it, bake for your coworkers.

We all need a pick-me-up every now and then, and who doesn’t like a homemade treat? Package your baked goods individually, and bring them to your coworkers’ desks to ensure a face-to-face interaction with each one.

Dessert Recipes for the Old Pro

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4: Pay for the person behind you on your coffee run.

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DIY Thank You Cards

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Take time to craft a handmade thank you card, and send it via snail mail.

5: Thank a teacher or mentor who impacted your life.

6: Return someone's grocery cart for him or her.

7: Bring dinner to a friend in need.

Soup Tureen from HGTVs Everyday Celebrations

Cook a homemade meal, and bring it to a sick friend or new parent. Be sure to ask his or her preferences before cooking.

Quick + Healthy Dinner Recipes

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8: Offer to do laundry for a friend in need.

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Cute Woman folding clothes

Photo by: Wavebreakmedia Ltd

Wavebreakmedia Ltd

The same friends who need a homemade meal may also desperately need help with their laundry. Offer to be their stand-in laundry service, and take care of the dreaded chore. Be sure to launder their items carefully, and bring them back neatly folded. Hesitant about your laundry skills? Read our guide to stain removal, first.

9: Wash someone’s car.

Auto Cleaning

A pressure washer can make car washing much faster and more enjoyable and it’s a quick way to remove stubborn mud, dirt and salt deposits. Just be sure to use the gentler 40-degree nozzle on the paint. For tires and wheels, you can amp up the intensity.

Photo by: Flynnside Out Productions

Flynnside Out Productions

10: Let someone who’s in a hurry skip you in line.

11: Offer to walk your friend or neighbor’s dog.

Pet-Level Windows

Pet-level acrylic windows were built into this fence to give the family dog a prime view.

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12: Offer your mail carrier a water bottle or snack.

13: Offer to babysit for someone who needs a break.

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Easy Paper Towel Roll Crafts

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(You totally got this.)

Do you know a parent under a lot of stress? Offer them a night of free babysitting. Don’t have any toys? I bet you at least have a paper towel roll to spare.

14: Visit a nursing home.

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Granddaughter embracing her happy grandmother at home

Photo by: Eva-Katalin, Getty Images

Eva-Katalin, Getty Images

Block off a couple hours to spend with the residents of a local nursing home. If you’re musically inclined, offer to sing or play an instrument before or after a meal. If not, spend time talking and listening to residents who seem eager to socialize.

15: Compliment someone — anyone!

16: Compliment a parent on his or her child’s behavior.

Little boy playing a toy plane in airplane trip.

Often times, this means more than you'll ever know to an exhausted parent.

17: Add coins to a parking meter that’s about to expire.

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Follow these six tips for a stress-free moving experience.

18: Help a friend move.

19: Offer directions to someone who is lost.

If someone asks you for directions, spend time giving thoughtful, helpful instructions. Or if you see someone staring at a map quizzically, offer a helping hand.