“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around for a while, you could miss it.”
– Ferris Bueller
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Yes, Ferris Bueller is a fictional character from an (AWESOME) 80’s movie that takes a day to enjoy life. Fictional or not…the man is right! We often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives that we forget what’s around us. With all of the stress of work, home, kids, responsibilities, we just forget to stop and think…there are people around us that have it much worse than we do.
-And sometimes just the smallest gesture can make someone’s day. Not to mention that in most cases, doing just the littlest thing for someone can make us feel wonderful as well.
So here’s some small random acts of kindness that will make a BIG impact…and most won’t cost you a dime!
#12. Let someone with small children in line to go ahead of you.
Sometimes kids get antsy during errands with their parents. Trust me, the look on Mom’s face will be thank you enough.
#11. Buy the person behind you in line a coffee or muffin.
Who wouldn’t love a free treat?
#10. Share your umbrella during a rain storm.
Hey, you never know, you could wind up with a new friend.
#9. When cooking your family a meal, make some extra.
Maybe you have a neighbor or a friend who lives alone. If you ask most people who live alone, they sometimes feel it’s a waste to “cook for one person” and they wind up with a sandwich for dinner. A nice hot meal is always appreciated.
#8. Talk with your sales clerk.
We take people in the service industry for granted sometimes. Chat it up a bit…Ask them how their day is going.
#7. Ask if you can help.
Whether it’s a stressed out co-worker or a family member or friend going through a rough time…ask what you can do to help. Maybe your co-worker just needs to catch a breath of fresh air and you can cover his/her phone. Or perhaps your friend needs a hand picking up their kids? Just ask. Sometimes the gesture alone makes that person feel good.
#6. Compliment good service.
I feel as though people are much more likely to send a complaint email or letter to a company than if they received top-notch service. Take a few minutes and reach out to a manager or store owner. They will love and appreciate to hear positive feedback.
#5. Thank a Soldier.
It’s because of these selfless people that we enjoy many freedoms. The next time you see a soldier, thank them for their service.
#4. Take someone to the movies.
I’m sure you have a couple of people in your life that can use a two hour get away or maybe it’s a luxury they can’t afford. Buy a couple of tickets and a tub of pop corn and enjoy the show. I know they will.
#3. Thank an officer or fire fighter.
These brave men and woman risk their lives every day. The next time you see an officer or fire fighter working, offer a cup of coffee or bottle of water. Thank them for keeping your community safe.
#2. Thank your parents.
When was the last time you said, “Thank you”? I mean really said THANK YOU to your parents? Christmas and birthdays don’t count. Pick up the phone and call them. Thank them for all that they have done for you- the sacrifice …and for putting up with you during your teen years!
#1. Be Grateful.
Like Ferris said, “stop and look around”… Be grateful for what you have. If you are fortunate enough to be able to share your wealth –I’m not talking money here – your time, knowledge, a helping hand…do it.
There’s no better feeling in the world than a random act of kindness. For both parties involved.
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