Just like with any skill, implementing kindness into your daily life takes practice. Although it may seem like a daunting task initially, when small changes are made throughout your daily routine, kindness can become second nature. One way in which kindness can be achieved is through the simple practice of putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. When we are able to see a situation through another’s eyes, we can understand where they are coming from, and therefore empathize. Another way to achieve kindness, especially kindness to oneself, is through self-talk. Self-talk is the voice through which we speak to ourselves in our head. By consciously shifting negative thoughts to positive ones, we can quite easily become kinder and more considerate to ourselves and others. Just like with love, we cannot truly be kind to others unless we are kind to ourselves. A more hands-on approach to implementing kindness is through volunteering. When we volunteer, whether it be at a food bank or community garden, this form of service without compensation is undoubtedly an act of kindness. Another way we can practice kindness in our community is through donations. A great way to do this is through cleaning out your closet of unused clothing and miscellaneous items at least twice a year. Once you have collected these items into bags, take them to a donation center, such as Goodwill. Not only is this a sustainable practice, but it gives the less fortunate an opportunity to enjoy newer items at an affordable price for them. It is true what they say, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. 

Complimenting others is also a great way to spread kindness throughout your day. Next time you compliment a stranger, pay special attention to the shift in their demeanor. This alone is enough to give you that feel-good sensation in your heart. Smiling is one of the simplest and easiest ways to share kindness. Whether you’re walking down the street or passing someone at the grocery store, giving a simple smile has the power to brighten someone’s day. Next time you are at a checkout stand or a stranger does you a favor, sincerely thank them. So many of us in today’s society go through our days feeling unappreciated, so when someone takes a moment and sincerely thanks us, it truly makes an impact. By implementing these simple practices, kindness will begin to come more naturally to you, while inevitably giving you a happier life and world around you.