How to Be Kind to Others in 55 Easy Ways

Last Updated on November 21, 2022

In this chaotic world we live in, being kind isn’t always the easiest choice to make. We read about so much pain and suffering in the news that we can’t help but lose faith in humanity.

If you’re struggling to develop this trait, here’s a good reason to do so. According to studies, being kind actually makes you happier.

Researchers have found that people who got into the habit of giving to charity or helping someone in need experience a phenomenon called “helper’s high”. It’s when people are motivated to do more acts of kindness because they get a rush of positive emotions after. The kinder they are, the better they feel about themselves and the world around them.

Kindness may just be the secret to living a happier and healthier life. But how do you get into the habit? Well, it’s actually simpler than you think. Here’s how to be kind to others in 55 easy ways you can today:

1. Surprise a friend you haven’t talked to in a while with a phone call

Ask how they are, invite them out for a cup of coffee, or reminisce over the good old times. Anything to let them know that you remember them. Click to tweet!

2. Give your partner a long big hug before they leave for work

It doesn’t just feel great, but you’re also giving them a good start for the day. Click to tweet!

3. Hold the door for someone when you’re entering or leaving a building

It doesn’t matter if it’s for a man, woman, or child, holding the door open for them is a kind act that will be appreciated by anyone. Click to tweet!

4. Buy your stressed-out colleague a cup of coffee and deliver it to their desk

To make it even more special, stick on a post-it note telling them how proud you are of their efforts. They will definitely appreciate the gesture. Click to tweet!

5. Refill the paper cartridge or replace the toner in the photocopier

The next time you hear a colleague swearing because the photocopier isn’t working, check out how you can help. And don’t forget to do it with a smile. Click to tweet!

6. Give all your small change to a busker or a homeless person who needs it

Keeping all those coins can be a nuisance anyway so put them to good to use by giving them away. Click to tweet!

7. Offer to do chores or run errands for an elderly neighbor

For the elderly who live alone, having someone help them around the house can be quite the treat. Loneliness is one of the toughest problems that the elderly face so they would definitely appreciate the company. Click to tweet!

8. Be a kind driver

Whether it’s letting people cross the pedestrian lane or stopping to give way for another car to park, there are tons of opportunities to be kinder and more intentional on the road. It can even be pulling over and helping out a driver in trouble. Click to tweet!

9. Be generous with compliments

They’re free and guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face. But make sure that you give genuine compliments and not just meaningless lip service. Most people can spot fakeness from a mile away! Click to tweet!

10. Be the first to smile at people

Smiling won’t just make you happier, but they’re also very infectious. Think about it this way. It’s hard not to smile when you come across someone smiling at you. Click to tweet!

11. Say “please” and “thank you” often

These words are social lubricators that draw people closer to you. Why? Because when you say these words often, you just come off as a more pleasant person. Click to tweet!

12. Visit someone you know who is in the hospital

Come over with some flowers and a card with encouraging words. If a visit is not possible, call them on the phone or send a text message. Anything that will make them feel like you care. Click to tweet!

13. Donate money to a worthy cause

If your heart bleeds for the refugee problem for example but you have no idea how you can help, your dollar can go a long way. Just make sure that you course your monetary donations through a reputable organization. Click to tweet!

14. Volunteer your time

If you don’t have that much money to give away, you can also touch lives by volunteering your time. There are plenty of volunteering opportunities in any community so look for one that you can really commit to. Click to tweet!

15. Keep a shy person company

Some people have a hard time socializing at parties so if you notice someone who seems to be out of place, approach that person and initiate a conversation. Who knows? You could learn something new in the process. Click to tweet!

16. Teach kids to be kind.

The best gift you can give the next generation is to teach them skills that will serve them well in life. If you’re a parent or a teacher or someone who is always around young people, strive to be a good role model. Click to tweet!

17. Plant more trees

The environment can always use more trees so joining a tree-planting project in your community is an act of kindness that will benefit generations to come. You can also start small by starting a community garden with neighbors and friends. Click to tweet!

18. Grow your hair and donate it to a charity that makes wigs for cancer patients

It’s a great way to boost the confidence and well-being of a person who is suffering from hair loss. Hair should be in pristine condition so avoid getting it dyed for the meantime. Click to tweet!

19. Invite new neighbors over for dinner.

Moving to a new place can be very overwhelming so usher your new neighbors into your community with a hearty meal. No matter if they’re coming from a different state or from across the world, they will definitely appreciate your efforts to make them feel welcome. Click to tweet!

20. Give affection to the people around you

Even if you’re not the touchy-feely type, a warm hug or pat on the back can brighten someone’s day. Also, studies show that physical affection has some amazing benefits. Click to tweet!

21. Offer your shoulder to cry on to someone who is struggling with problems.

Sometimes, you don’t need to say or do anything to comfort someone who is having a rough time. Your presence is enough to show a hurt person that you care for them. Click to tweet!

22. Mentor someone at work

One of the best things a person can do for a subordinate at work is to pass on the tricks of the trade. If you see someone promising in your team, volunteer to be their mentor and teach them skills that you know would help them get ahead in their career. Click to tweet!

23. Donate hygiene products to your local shelter

Local shelters don’t always have enough supplies to give the homeless people in their care. Pool together some money from friends and family who would also like to help out, and buy hygiene products for your local shelter. Things like toothbrushes, razors, soaps, and sanitary pads can make all the difference in helping the homeless regain their confidence. Click to tweet!

24. Buy multiple copies of your favorite book and give them away

You can tell a lot about a person just by asking about their favorite book. If your favorite book has inspired you and made a huge impact on the way you live life, pass it along. Click to tweet!

25. Send funny videos to a friend or family member who needs cheering up

You may not know it, but your sense of humor could be your greatest gift to mankind. If you love watching and curating funny videos, send a couple to people you know who needs a bit of cheering up. It might not solve their problems, but it will definitely put a smile on their faces. Click to tweet!

26. Strive to be a peacemaker

When in conflict with another person, always strive to be the bigger person and resolve your issues in peace. Don’t get into shouting matches or fistfights just to fight for what you think is right. There is no disagreement that a little kindness can’t fix. Click to tweet!

27. Clean up even without being asked

Whether it’s making your own bed, decluttering your desk, or throwing away your own trash when you eat at your favorite fast food joint, cleaning up is a habit that will make everyone happy. People around you will love you for helping out. Click to tweet!

28. Say sorry to someone you’ve hurt in the past

Even if it was years ago since you last spoke, make an effort to apologize to a person you’ve hurt in the past. It may not bring the relationship back to what it was, but it will help lead the person towards a path of healing. Click to tweet!

29. Pay for the purchases of the person behind you in the grocery line

If you have extra cash and you want to brighten someone’s day, offer to pay for the grocery bill of the person after you. You can also do this at your favorite diner or coffee spot. Click to tweet!

30. Offer to take out-of-town friends on a free tour of your city

Your friends will love seeing your city from your point of view. Complete the experience by treating them to a meal at your favorite spot. Click to tweet!

31. Think before you click

Before you click share, make sure that you’re only sharing truthful content from a reliable source. Click to tweet!

32. Share inspirational content on your social media accounts

There’s already so much toxicity online as it is. Counter the negativity by using your social media account to share positive and inspirational content to your followers. Click to tweet!

33. Stop swearing for a whole month

From the heart, the mouth speaks. If you’re always swearing, people around you might find it frustrating to talk to you. Look for better ways to express your anger and you’ll become a better communicator in the process. Click to tweet!

34. Stop yourself from complaining out loud

No one likes to hear a person complain 24/7. Stop this toxic habit if you want to develop a positive mindset. Click to tweet!

35. Pick up litter when you see it on the street

Even if it’s not your trash, pick it up and throw it in the garbage can. Click to tweet!

36. Buy someone a meaningful gift whenever you get a chance

While no one will turn down a gift card, buying someone a meaningful gift sends the message that you took time and effort to think of what the person would like. Click to tweet!

37. Bake cookies and organize a bake sale for a children’s home

Sweet treats will definitely make anyone’s day better. If you’re a great baker, or you know people who are, get together and organize a bake sale for the children’s home in your community. Click to tweet!

38. When you see an elderly person or a pregnant woman get on a train or bus, offer your seat

This is common courtesy, especially if you take public transportation during rush hour. Always offer your seat to someone who needs it more than you. Click to tweet!

39. Offer to babysit for someone who needs some “alone time”

Have busy couple friends who haven’t gone out in a while? Know a single mom or dad who is long overdue for alone time? Then offer your services as a cool babysitter to their kids. Sometimes, all your friends need is a couple of hours to get away from it all. Click to tweet!

40. Choose your words wisely

Kind words are still the best way to motivate someone into action. When you choose your words carefully and only speak kindness, you speak life into a person. Click to tweet!

41. Give someone a handwritten letter or card to express your gratitude

Reduce stress and improve your well-being by making gratitude an everyday habit. There’s something heartwarming about expressing your gratitude with a handwritten letter or card. Click to tweet!

42. Visit your parents regularly if they live far away

No matter where your parents live, they will love to see you, even if it’s just for an afternoon. Click to tweet!

43. Make your partner their favorite meal after a long day at work

Cooking is the way, not just to a man’s heart, but also to a woman’s. Preparing your partner’s favorite meal after a stress-filled workday will not only help boost their mood,  but it will also make you the hero. You’ll never know when your PB&J sandwich will save someone from a bad day. Click to tweet!

44. Ask a friend or family member, “How can I help you?”

Even if you can’t solve someone’s problem, there’s no harm in asking what you can do to help make their situation better. Whether it’s giving a bit of money or doing something for them that will make their life easier, make sure you do what you can to help them out. Don’t ask the question and then disappear when you can’t deliver. Be honest if you can’t do it, but offer other alternatives. Click to tweet!

45. Buy someone who needs it some medicine

Overheard a co-worker complain about an upset stomach or notice your partner still has a cold? Then drop by the nearest medicine counter and help them get relief for their symptoms. If you’re unsure about the kind of medicine they need, and I highly suggest that they see a doctor for it, you can also try getting them teas, vitamins, or natural health supplements instead. Click to tweet!

46. Use or wear a gift that a person gave to you in their presence

Gifts can mean a lot to both the gift-giver and the gift-receiver. There’s a lot of thought that goes into giving the perfect gift. Show how much you appreciate the gesture by using or wearing something that a person gave to you while you’re with them. Click to tweet!

47. Smile while you’re talking to someone on the phone

Telemarketers know that smiling while talking on the phone makes them sound friendlier and more approachable to the person on the other line. It also makes you sound energetic and more pleasant to talk to. Try it on your next phone call and you’ll notice the difference. Click to tweet!

48. Put love notes into your children’s or partner’s lunch packs

There’s nothing sweeter than finding love notes when you least expect it. Let your family feel your love and encouragement by putting love notes into their lunch packs. Thoughtful gestures like this will excite them to come home. Click to tweet!

49. Give away fresh produce from your garden

Do you know what’s the gift that just keeps on giving? Having a garden of fresh fruits and vegetables. Once your hard work in your garden starts to pay off, share your harvest with the people you love. Click to tweet!

50. Teach English or soft skills at the community center

If there are a lot of migrants in your community, volunteer to teach English or soft skills to help them adapt to their new environment quicker. It’s a great way to help people out and learn about a new culture at the same time. Click to tweet!

51. Share your secret recipe to someone who appreciated your cooking

You see someone loving your chili? Then offer to share your secret recipe, or better yet, invite them over for a cooking class.  This way, more people will enjoy your home-cooking. Click to tweet!

52. Give your full attention to a person who needs someone to talk to

When someone reaches out to talk to you about their problems, make sure to give them your undivided attention. And if they end up sharing sensitive information, remember to keep it just between the both of you. No one else needs to know about their drama. Click to tweet!

53. Respect what the other person wants

While you can always give advice to people who ask you for it, you can’t always expect them to follow it. Always respect their decision and don’t force them to change. Click to tweet!

54. Be honest with a friend or family member when they’re messing up their lives

There are times when the kindest thing you can do for someone you love is to call them out on the wrong choices they’re making. While it might cause friction in your relationship, it will also save them from years of pain and suffering. Click to tweet!

55. Go on a mission trip

It might sound like a big commitment, but stepping out of your comfort zone to see how you can help people in impoverished communities is one of the kindest things you can do for mankind. Plus, it’s guaranteed to be an eye-opening experience that will change how you look at the world. Click to tweet!

Do You Now Know How to be Kind to Others?

Kindness is a choice that you can easily make. And the more you choose to be kind, the more natural it will become.

Try to do one, two, or five of these acts of kindness every week and see how it changes your life. Because in the end, it’s not material wealth, but your impact on others that matters.