The average American knows 600 people. The world population is estimated at 7.2 billion. So that’s a total of 7,199,999,400 strangers. Needless to say – that’s a lot of people. And when it comes to being kind to strangers, there are a lot of opportunities to do good and make a stranger’s day.
This list of ideas can help you to spread happiness and joy around the world – to the people you see on the street, encounter on social media – and to millions of people you may never know, see or meet. Each idea listed below to improve a stranger’s day is easy to actualize, and sure to have a strong positive impact.
1. PLEDGE A GOOD DEED
From giving a compliment to allowing a stranger ahead in line, you can make a pledge to do good as part of Good Deeds Day on April 10, 2016. The funky platform allows you to share your promise on social media, and sends out a personalized reminder ahead of the big day.
2. DOWNLOAD AN APP
Your trusty smartphone can serve as the perfect tool to help out your fellow man – from lending your eyes to a blind person to giving assistance to strangers in an emergency. This list of six such friendly apps will get you on the right track.
3. SMILE
Simply flashing a smile at a person you pass on the street can change their day. Imagine that – all you need to do is activate a few small muscles in your face, for a matter of seconds, and you can make someone happy. This smiley 59-second video will walk you through the science behind it. Give it a go – you might just make your day, too.
4. DONATE SOMETHING
It could be books you know you won’t read again, clothes your children have outgrown, or even a cash donation to your favorite charity. Either way it’s a win-win – you’ll feel great for helping out, and help someone else in need.
5. PAY IT FORWARD
Popping up all over the world, Pay it Forward chains usually start when a kind-hearted person decides to pay for the person in line behind them – at a coffee shop perhaps, or a drive through. Each happy recipient then decides to return the favor, brightening dozens or even hundreds of people’s days with the good vibes of receiving a gift and passing it on. Next time you’re buying something, consider making a stranger’s day by paying it forward.
6. GIVE WAY
Keeping zen on the road is a challenge to say the least – making it the perfect place to practice your mindfulness and be kind to strangers. When you’re next behind the wheel, try to be the kindest driver on the road – giving way wherever you can, especially if someone seems to be in a rush. You’ll make their day that little bit smoother – and probably enjoy your drive, too!
This article originally appeared on Goodnet.org and is republished here with permission.
