Things You'll Need:
- compassion
- a smile
- time
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Step 1
Open a door for someone. Simple, doesn't cost anything. You may get a strange look, since there don't seem to be as many door openers as there used to be.
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Step 2
Smile and say hi. Too often, we pass others in the grocery store, in the hall at work, at the laundromat or the library - and we look down at the ground. Mostly this has to do with personal space and the desire to not intrude. It will be difficult to re-program for a while, but try. Sometimes, a smile can improve a persons day incredibly.
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Step 3
Parking space. If you have a chance to give a choice parking spot to another, and you don't mind a walk? Why not?
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Step 4
Leave a note, send a card, write a letter. When someone has done something great, or maybe just needs something to perk them up and remind them of how valued they are, an old fashioned approach does the trick.
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Step 5
Volunteer. Organizations that rely on donations are hurting more than ever. A donation of your time is still a valuable item. Read to the elderly or children at story hour. Look for volunteer opportunities local to you.
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Step 6
Donate. When you grocery shop, if you can afford to pick up an extra jar of peanut butter or canned goods, donate to your local food pantry. If you find you have extra office supplies, call your local schools to see if they can be used. If you have appliances taking up space and collecting dust in storage, offer them to those who may not have.
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Step 7
Pay it forward. If you are in line at McDonald's or Starbucks or any other place, offer to pick up the tab for the car behind you. It could start a chain reaction, and leave smiles on many faces.
