All you need to know about…

giving happiness global impact

15 Intentional Acts of Kindness to Make You Happier

We 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 Kindness

  1. Smile 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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’
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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!
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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!
  15. 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 Happiness

Science 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.

What people are saying about 365give

“I wanted to express my gratitude for the teaching you provided today. Your message was delivered eloquently, compassionately, and without judgment. The kids were engaged, and now have knowledge with which they can change the world. We all appreciated how you took the time to help us learn to build positive mindsets and practice happiness.”
Shelley Gardner, Grade 6 Ridgeview Elementary (West Vancouver)
“Actions really do speak louder than words, which is why I believe the 365give Challenge has resonated throughout my community. Every give we do is so important to us and leaves us happier and appreciating our lives a little bit more than before.”
Mahina Niyozova (Tajikistan)
“After watching the 365give TEDx Talk, I was inspired to join and begin a daily giving program in India. Today, along with 12 other volunteer women, we provide 100 meals to local underprivileged children in Bangalore for school every day.”
Deepika Ahuja, Mom (Bangalore, India)
“My life has greater meaning now.”
Renate Jorge, @BeKindBrazil and 365give Member, Family Program (Brazil)
“I just wanted to share that 365give really helped me. I am a better person now, thank you.”
MayLee, 365give Member, Individual Program
“This 365give Challenge has really injected excitement and extra enthusiasm in each work day as I think about what we can do. It has motivated me and the students.”
Cristina Peters, School Counselor (New York City, USA)
“I have seen a huge shift in energy throughout my classroom since doing the 365give Challenge. The Challenge has empowered my students to make a positive difference in the school’s community and beyond.”
Cella Adriana, Special Needs Educator /The Holliswood School (New York City, USA)
“The 365give Challenge helps students understand their impact on others. It opens avenues for introducing and discussing global and local issues in classrooms. It is powerful to watch students of all ages think about how they can make a change in another person’s life with one small act.”
Jessica Hall, Primary Teacher, French Immersion at École Pauline Johnson (West Vancouver, Canada)