Posts promoting “positive vibes” fill social media, but physically doing something for someone rather than just posting a picture can be the best way to spread positivity. The staff at The Rider Online challenges our readers to participate in the Random Acts of Kindness Movement. Check out the list below for our top ten suggestions on how you can participate.
Tip Jars
Make use of those tip jars. Just put in a dollar or two, the people working will really appreciate it. Or even your spare change or change left over from an order.
Pay It Forward
Next time you go through a drive-thru, pay for the person behind you. When they get up to the window to find out their food will be free, it will brighten their day. This could also go for someone behind you in line at the grocery store or Starbucks.
Every time you log into Instagram, comment something positive on the first photo that pops up on your dashboard. With all the negativity that can surface within the comments section, a compliment or praise can boost a person’s confidence and make them smile.
Meal
If you overhear someone ordering their food at a restaurant, pay for one item of their order. When their check comes and they see that their appetizer was free, they will be pleasantly surprised. Free food will always be appreciated.
Vending Machine
If you have a little extra pocket money, put enough change for another drink in a vending machine. This will not only make someone smile, but it will also ensure that they will not be short on change for their purchase, which can be a big disappointment.
Community service not only helps people who are truly in need, but can also improve your college applications tremendously. Community service can be hard work, but the feeling you get after you have helped someone out can not be beat.
Home
Help out a little bit by doing extra chores without being asked to. Washing dishes, emptying the dishwasher or cleaning your room can make the rest of your family less stressed and provide a happier atmosphere overall.
Driving
Be a courteous driver. Let people merge into your lane if they need to, wave people on if you both stop at a stop sign at the same time. Be nice. You never know how someone else’s day has been going, and a little kindness on the road could make things easier for them in the long run.
Anonymous Affirmation letters
Write a letter to a friend or fellow student to give them a boost of confidence. This can involve anything about that person that positively stands out to you. For example, their personality traits or physical characteristics. If you’ve ever received a letter like this before, you know how great it can be to get one. They can be any length you want, short or long, and they will surely brighten the recipient’s day. Leave it at their desk before they get to class or somewhere else they will eventually see it.
Sweet Treats
Baking for people can be extremely fun. Ask about their favorite dessert and surprise them with a fresh batch of cookies or a chocolate cake. You can always keep the leftovers, so you both will get a sweet treat. This works best when they get stressed about something and need a quick mood changer.
