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Random Acts of Kindness Day 2018: Here are 9 things you can do to be kind today

klimkin/320 images/Pixabay
klimkin/320 images/Pixabay

Without realising it, you probably do small acts of kindness every day.

Whether this be texting your friend to see how they are, keeping to the right of the escalator on your morning commute or not playing your music really loud in a public place – all of these are considerate and worthy of a kindness badge.

Today, there is an extra reason to be kind as it's Random Acts of Kindness Day. It's not an official holiday but acts as a time to stop and actively take the time to make someone happy.

So how can you participate? Here are nine things you can do to show a little kindness to someone today.

1. Call a loved relative.

Whether it's an aged aunt, your grandfather or your mum, family members absolutely love it when you young people give them a call. So pick up the phone and give him or her a call to catch up.

2. If you make eye contact with someone on the tube, smile

While we’re all generally too busy looking at our phones and avoiding other’s eyes at all costs on the Tube – if you do happen to catch someone’s eye, give them a smile. It could make their day a little brighter.

3. Adopt a pet

If you have decided you want to get a pet, make today the day you do it. Head down to your local animal shelter and pick up the dog/cat/bird/hamster or any other animal that tugs on your heart strings.

4. Put a sweet note in your other half’s bag

Something as small as ‘thinking of you x’ folded up and popped in with their lunch can be a lovely little surprise come midday.

5. Send a letter or care package to your friend

Whether they live down the street or in another country, sending a letter is the old-fashioned language of love. Perhaps include their favourite chocolate bar to make it extra sweet.

6. Donate some money

There are so many worthy causes that need funding and it doesn't need to be a big donation - every small amount helps.

7. Pick up some extra food for the homeless person next to your regular lunch stop

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a roof over their head or enough food to eat during the day, so when picking up a sandwich, grab another one and give it to the homeless.

8. Give a compliment

They’re free and easy to do, and they can make the receiver feel really great about themselves. What’s better than that?

9. Be kind to yourself

Research has shown that writing down three things you are grateful for every night can increase overall happiness by 25 per cent. Because while being kind to others is imperative, so is being kind to yourself.