When we were running yesterday morning, Stacy told us a story of a client who took a moment out to thank her for a job well done and to pass along positive feedback and how great this made her feel. It is easy in our everyday, busy, lives to take things for granted and only complain when things are not as expected. A compliment, praise, a smile — all of these things can really lift someone up and give them that extra spark to get through the day. It seems trite to say, but it does seem true, that kindness can be contagious.
On September 11th, my friend Mike had a great post on Facebook about how to feel better on such a somber day:
Really this was just a list of ways to be kind and share gratitude. I remember feeling down, but thinking of Mike’s list and forcing myself to smile at the construction workers by my office and saying good morning. They seemed a bit surprised, but smiled brightly and wished me a great morning, too. It made me feel less gloomy and I could see they were happier, too. My Starbucks barista often compliments customers on a shirt, a piece of jewelry or inquires about a weekend plan. It is so nice to get that extra boost. (Wow – I have really been gone from NYC for too long, huh?!) Maybe “midwest nice” has something to do with kindness?
My friend Samantha shared a link on Facebook to a great program from the awesome healthy snack makers at KIND
Do the KIND thing is a program from KIND to encourage people to do small acts of kindness in their communities and then share stories to encourage others to do the same. How does it work? Each month KIND challenges its community to carry out a specific act of kindness. If enough people sign up to complete that act of kindness, KIND carries out a BIG KIND Act for a group of people that really needs it. This month’s new mission is “Help Provide Thanksgiving Meals to Families in Need”. Participants are asked to “Give thanks to someone who has made an impact on your life” and share your story on their website. If enough people accept this month’s mission, they will partner with Philabundance, the Delaware Valley’s largest hunger relief organization, to provide thousands of Thanksgiving meals to families this holiday season.
Need some good karma? Check out “Do the KIND thing” and share your stories or just thank someone, praise some thing or just be nice. It is free and easy. Go for it!