Kindness: What Is It + 89 Ways To Practice Kindness Today

Understanding Kindness

Kindness is the quality of being friendly, generous and considerate. It involves caring for others through small and big acts with no expectation of reward. Kindness makes people feel valued, spreading compassion and empathy.

Benefits of Practicing Kindness

Increases feelings of happiness and life satisfaction
Reduces stress and improves emotional wellbeing
Strengthens relationships and communities
Sets a positive example for others including children

89 Ways to Practice Kindness

There are endless opportunities to express kindness each day. Here are 89 ideas to inspire more compassion:

Kindness Toward Yourself

Get enough sleep
Eat healthier foods
Start a gratitude journal
Treat yourself to a massage
Take time for hobbies you enjoy

Kindness Toward Family and Friends

Give genuine compliments often
Express appreciation for their unique qualities
Offer support during difficult times
Celebrate special occasions together
Share laughs through funny stories or jokes

Kindness Toward Strangers

Smile, make eye contact and say hello
Hold the door open for others
Pay for a stranger’s coffee or meal
Make small talk with someone who looks lonely
Help carry heavy packages or bags

Kindness Toward People in Need

Donate to a charity that helps provide food, shelter or medical care
Volunteer at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen
Send care packages to troops stationed overseas
Spend time providing care for the elderly or disabled
Give clothes and toys to less fortunate children

Kindness Toward the Environment

Pick up litter while on a walk
Plant trees and vegetable gardens
Use reusable shopping bags
Recycle paper, plastic, glass and aluminum
Conserve energy by adjusting the thermostat and turning off lights

FAQ

What are small acts of kindness?

Small acts of kindness include smiling, saying thank you, holding the door, letting someone go ahead of you in line, paying a compliment, or helping carry something.

How can I teach my child to be kind?

Lead by example through your own kindness. Also praise kind behavior in others around your child, read books about kindness, set expectations for kind behavior, role play situations, and discuss their kind acts.

What are random acts of kindness?

Random acts of kindness are those performed spontaneously without expectation of recognition or reward. Examples are paying for a stranger’s coffee, leaving a kind note for a mail carrier, or helping someone carry groceries to their car.

Why is being kind important?

Being kind increases positive emotions and a sense of purpose. It teaches compassion, strengthens human connections, sets a positive example for others, and improves health and wellbeing.

How can I spread more kindness in my community?

You can spread kindness in your community by smiling and greeting people when you pass by, starting conversations with strangers, volunteering for local organizations, paying compliments, and recognizing small acts of kindness you witness.