Oh May Oh May

Be Kind

What goes around comes around - and with kindness it really does. Research shows that being kind to others increases our own levels of happiness as well as theirs. What's more it has a knock-on effect --kindness is contagious, so it makes our communities nicer places to be.

Recent research into brain functioning has confirmed that we are hard-wired for love and compassion. So it's not all chasing about individual success - our communities and society flourish when people look out for each other.

When we're kind to people we know it strengthens our connections with them and provides a source of support. Research shows that we may benefit from giving support more than those receiving it - and we're also more likely get support in return when we need it. This may not be like-for-like support, or even from the same person, but being kind to others builds a wider support network which increases well being all round.

Doing kind things for strangers helps build cooperation, trust and a sense of safety in our communities. It also helps us to see others more positively and empathize with them. These are the foundations of a thriving local community and a flourishing society!

Here's a list of suggested acts of kindness to get you started:

Give up your seat


Hold a door open for someone


Give a (sincere) compliment


Make someone laugh


 Give someone a hug


 Take time to really listen to someone

Make peace (you know who they are)

Make someone new feel welcome


Help someone who's lost

Have a conversation with a stranger


Pick up litter as you walk


Let someone in front of you in the queue


Read a story with a child


Tell someone they mean a lot to you


Let someone have your parking spot


Offer your change to someone struggling to find the right amount


Treat a loved one to breakfast in bed


Buy cakes or fruit for your colleagues


Invite your neighbor for a drink and a chat


Offer to help with someone's shopping

Tell someone if you notice they're doing a good job


Pass on a book you've enjoyed


Say sorry (you know who to)


Forgive someone for what they've done


Visit a sick friend, relative or neighbor


Buy an unexpected gift for someone


Bake something for a neighbor


Pay for someone in the queue behind


Do a chore that you don't normally do

Help out someone in need


Offer to look after a friend's children


Offer to mow your neighbor's lawn


Donate your old things to charity


Give food to a homeless person and take time to talk with them


Visit someone who may be lonely


Give blood


Get back in contact with someone you've lost touch with


Organize a fundraising event


Volunteer your time for a charity


Plan a street party

The lists can go on…think about it!