15 Intentional Acts of Kindness to Make You HappierWe all have days when things don’t go our way. The sun doesn’t seem to shine quite as brightly, and it’s hard to find joy in the day-to-day. Some days, its just difficult to stay positive and find moments of joy. But research has shown that performing acts of kindness can lead to increased levels of happiness and wellbeing. So if you’re looking for a way to boost your mood, why not try intentional acts of kindness to give your day, and someone else’s, a lift?15 Intentional Acts of KindnessSmile at Strangers: One of the best ways to spread a little joy is to smile at strangers. It costs nothing, but can make someone’s day. It might even start a chain reaction of smiles that can be felt throughout an entire city. It’s a small act of kindness, but it can make a big difference.Pay It Forward – Paying it forward is a great way to show kindness to others. Whether you pay for someone’s coffee or pay for their groceries, it’s a great way to spread the love. It’s also a great way to show random acts of kindness. You never know who you might make smile with a simple act.Compliment Others – A simple compliment can go a long way. You can make someone’s day by taking the time to compliment them on their outfit, their hair, their work, or even just their smile. It’s a great way to show someone that you appreciate them and it’s sure to put a smile on their face.Buy Someone a Gift – Buying someone a gift is a great way to show them you care. It doesn’t have to be a big or expensive gift, even something small and thoughtful can show someone that you’re thinking of them. It’s also a great way to make someone’s day if they’re having a bad one.Send a Card – Sending a card can be a great way to show someone you’re thinking of them. It can be a simple note to say thanks, or a more heartfelt message to remind them that you care. It’Support Local Businesses – A great way to show kindness to your community is to support local businesses. This could be patronizing a small café or buying a gift from a local artisan.Send Handwritten Notes – Writing a handwritten letter or card is a thoughtful way to show someone you care. Whether it’s to a friend, family member, or a stranger, a handwritten note can make someone’s day.Share some baking – make an extra batch of muffins or cookies and take them to a neighbour or relative or send them to a school group or your local firefighters. Everyone appreciates a tasty snack!Donate to a Cause – Donating to a cause you believe in is another way to show kindness to your community. Even a small donation can make a difference and help those in need.Visit a Nursing Home – Visiting a nursing home is a great way to show kindness to those who are often forgotten. Spending time with the elderly and helping with activities can really make a difference in their day.Help a Neighbor in Need – Helping a neighbor in need is a great way to show kindness. Whether it’s helping to shovel snow, or running an errand, it’s a compassionate act that will make a difference.Pay for the Person Behind You – Surprising someone with a random act of kindness is a great way to make you both happy. Whether it’s paying for the person behind you in line at the store, or buying someone a cup of coffee, it’s sure to put a smile on their face.Volunteer – Volunteering your time is an act of kindness that benefits both you and those you’re helping. Whether it’s serving at a soup kitchen, or helping out at a local animal shelter, giving your time can make a difference.Make a Meal – for a friend or neighbours. Make a pot of soup and invite someone over or package it up and take it to them. Everyone can enjoy a night off of cooking!Plant a garden or a flower – put some seeds in a small pot or container and watch them grow. Plants helps our environment, clean our air and can add to your dinner table. It also creates a sense of satisfaction to watch something grow.Science of HappinessScience has proven that giving makes you happy. By doing small acts of giving, intentional acts of kindness you can increase the dopamine, oxytocin, seratonin, and endorphins in your body and experience something similar to the “runner’s high” that we like to call the “helper’s high” – completely natural and something you can create. Read more about the science of giving.Intentional acts of kindness make you feel good, make the person who receives them feel good and creates a ripple of kindness that can be felt far and wide. Being intentional means making a plan and doing it. Take charge of your happiness and help others at the same time. Sign up at 365give today and receive daily giving inspiration right to your inbox. Share Article: