In a world where hate and negativity is normalized, it is important to try to spread kindness everywhere we go. Kindness is a stepping stone to making the world a better place. It does not have to be a complicated thing – most acts of kindness are simple and small.

First, if kindness is not your forte, start as small as possible. Acts of kindness do not have to be gigantic gestures. If you see someone struggling, offer to help. You can help someone move boxes, put groceries in their car, or carry something heavy for them. If you’re like me, physical labour for others does not seem like an appealing idea. Instead, you can smile at people as they pass you or compliment them.

An easy way to bring a smile to someone’s face is to compliment them on their outfit or hair. It is important to phrase your compliments in the right way though, so that there isn’t an uncomfortable interaction. Keep it simple by saying “I love your _____.” Then if they seem receptive, expand a bit by saying you like the colour or pattern and that it suits them. These acts don’t cost any money or time, they are simple ways to brighten someone’s day.

If you feel like doing a “bigger” act of kindness, money does come into play. Something I enjoy doing is buying flowers for a stranger. Some days I’ll purchase a bouquet from my local grocery store and give the whole bouquet to someone who seems down and out. Or I cut open the bouquet and hand out one flower to people who pass by me. Also, you can offer to pay for someone’s groceries or food. I’m sure we’ve all been in a pay-it-forward situation at a Tim Hortons line up. Paying for the person’s meal behind you is always a lovely surprise.

Acts of kindness do not have to only be done to strangers. Everyone in your life deserves to be treated with kindness. Offer friends and families a helping hand, or a shoulder to cry on when they need it. Acts of kindness are also really rewarding for those who do them. Spreading positivity ultimately results in you being more positive and feeling more joy in your life.

Certain jobs are reliant on acts of kindness. So if you find you are really enjoying spreading kindness, check out some of these professions. Any job where you are actively working with people are great options to continue kindness. Some examples are nurses, childcare workers, and teachers. You may also be interested in being a veterinarian, a social worker, a therapist, or a guidance counsellor.

In conclusion, kindness is a simple thing that can be done in many ways. We can spread kindness to loved ones or strangers. However, it is important to remember that one act of kindness is not better than another. You do not have to spend money or resources to be kind.