It is so simple. In truth, it sounds too simple to really make a difference. But it does.
According to research shared by Psychology Today, kindness is linked inextricably to happiness and contentment—at both psychological and spiritual levels.
Their study also brought to light several fascinating facts about acts of kindness:
- It releases positivity: We feel better and the recipients of our acts feel better, which then makes them more likely to be kind to other people.
- It can release neurochemicals that result in a sense of well-being. In fact, the neural circuits that are involved in chemical “highs” are the same ones activated by kindness and compassion.
- It can reduce pain. Dopamine, serotonin, and endogenous opioids are released by kind behavior.
- It enhances the release of oxytocin in interactions where two or more people are engaged in kindness behavior. In turn, bonds between those who are kind to one another are strengthened.
- It enhances both physical and mental health. Many physical ailments are either precipitated by or aggravated by stress. Kindness reduces stress.
Random Acts of Kindness
This isn’t about giving away cars or paying off someone’s mortgage. A random act of kindness is a selfless act, of any scale, that is given unexpectedly.
From small acts of kindness to sharing kindness quotes, doing good makes you feel good! And that sounds like a win-win for everyone. Take a tiny portion of your day to put a smile on someone's face.
Here are ten fun examples of simple acts to consider:
- Mow your neighbor’s lawn after mowing your own
- Prepare breakfast in bed for your family
- Praise someone who you see doing a great job
- Keep the elevator door open for someone you see coming
- Tip generously
- Share a joke or funny meme
- Let someone cut in line in front of you
- Stop and help the new person
- Return the abandoned shopping cart
- Praise a parent
Bottom line? Doing random acts of kindness is an awesome way to make your world a better place. It can lift your mood and leave you feeling inspired. In addition, an act of kindness can make someone’s day. On a more dramatic scale, it might even change the course of a person’s life.
Stay well.