5 Ways To Be Kinder To Your Community
It’s the simple acts of kindness that can be most meaningful.
You don’t need to spend lots of money, plan in advance or even spend a heap of time to be kind. How we speak and behave in everyday situations can make a powerful impact on those around us.
Here are our top 5 things you can do to be kinder in your community!
1. Holding the door or lift open for someone
It sounds too easy, right? Some people may do this all the time and not even realise that it is an act of kindness, but the super easy act of holding a door for someone can give them the feeling that you care. They will feel recognised and appreciated.
2. Giving up your seat for someone
Parents will often teach their children to give up their seat for the elderly or people with disabilities, but how many of us still do this? You may have had a long day at work and just want to sit on the train and stare at your phone, but we encourage you to look up, look around and see if there is anyone standing who might need a seat more than you.
3. Making conversation with a stranger
It might not sound like much, but starting a conversation with a stranger could brighten their day. A simple hello can make someone feel recognised, whether it be a stranger on the street, someone providing you a service, or a work colleague. Communication with each other makes people feel noticed and like they are worth speaking to.
4. Giving someone a compliment
A compliment or bit of encouragement can boost happiness enormously, making the recipient feel like what they are doing is appreciated and has not gone unnoticed. Bring a smile to someone’s face by saying something positive!
5. Preparing a Helga’s sandwich for a neighbour
Our Kindness Index has shown us that one of the most meaningful ways to share kindness with each other is through food. Next time you’re taking the time to prepare a delicious Helga’s sandwich for yourself, make an extra for a neighbour, friend, family member, or even a complete stranger! They don’t have to be in need, the act of asking if they would like to share a meal with you shows you are thinking about them and care for them.
Want to know more about kindness?
We have commissioned McCrindle to create a report on the current state of kindness in Australia and give us a score that we’re calling The Kindness Index. You can enter your details below to get access to the full report, or we’ve together a Kindness Hub with all the info you need and we’ve collected some community stories and how-to guides in our Kindness Chronicles.
Explore our Kindness Hub Read more Kindness Chronicles