Ideas for National Random Acts of Kindness Day

What are you doing on February 17? You might not realize it, but your answer should be, “I’ll be going out of my way for others in my life and community.” Why? This is National Random Acts of Kindness Day! It even has its own trending hashtag on social media, so be sure to become part of the discussion.

Although it isn’t a federal holiday — which means you’ll have to go to work — National Random Acts of Kindness Day is a great excuse to show off your altruistic side and do something for the individuals you encounter. It’s also a reminder that you can make someone smile by even the simplest gesture.

Ideas for Your Random Kindness Act

Wondering how to participate in this holiday? Take a few tips from our ideas based on past random acts of kindness we’ve seen:

Help your neighbors. They’re the people who live closest to you, but you might not have the time to give them a helping hand on a regular basis. Make it a point to go out of your way for them on February 17. You could bring in their groceries, sweep their sidewalks or do a little fixer-upper handiwork on their behalf.

Watch for opportunities. Throughout the day, keep a keen eye on what’s happening around you. Instead of being latched to your mobile device, untether yourself. Be aware of your surroundings, and you’ll witness plenty of chances to be kind. See that gentleman with the cane who’s struggling to open the building door? Open it for him. Mother with kids having trouble hailing a taxi? Do it for her — or give her the taxi you just hailed for yourself.

Remember long-lost friends. We have people in our lives we’ve allowed to drift slightly away. Reconnect by sending them a handwritten letter, a gift or a funny postcard. You’ll brighten their day and perhaps revive a friendship that was faltering.

Be kind to your family members. Our families get the brunt of our emotions. They see us at our best and our worst. When was the last time you did something completely unexpected and wonderfully welcome for your significant other, parents, kids or relatives? Surprise them on National Random Acts of Kindness Day by taking on a task you wouldn’t normally consider doing, like making a big breakfast before everyone gets up.

Leave presents wherever you go. Your random act doesn’t have to be bold to have a lasting effect on recipients. Leave little gifts wherever you go. Put a piece of chocolate on a coworker’s desk when they aren’t looking. Attach a little letter to your child’s lunch telling them how proud you are of their accomplishments. Leave a sticky note on the bathroom mirror telling your spouse to have a wonderful day.

No matter what you do, make sure you do something on February 17. Be sure to tell others about the day, too. Help spread the kindness that’s so needed in our hectic world.