Random Acts of Kindness Day
Written by Megan Wallbanks on 17 Feb 2023
Mark February 17th in the calendar because it’s “Random Acts of Kindness Day”! If you've never heard of it, Random Acts of Kindness Day is a day dedicated to sharing kindness and uplifting others. Student life can be busy and stressful, and sometimes we forget to make time for others and share a little kindness. But it’s acts of kindness that make the world a happier place. So, in this blog, I’m going to talk about the history of the day and list some random acts of kindness to get inspired for the occasion.
“Random Acts of Kindness Day” was first invented in 1995 in Colorado, United States by a non-profit organisation called The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. Although it hasn’t been around that long, the message is increasing to spread, and communities are getting involved worldwide. It is a celebration of the small things in life because sometimes it’s the smallest things that can have the biggest difference!
Acts of kindness come in all different shapes and sizes. It can be the simplest things such as, being a good listener or caring for someone when they're down. But on this special day, maybe try something that you wouldn’t always think to do on a regular basis. Here are three simple acts of kindness that you can do to join in on the day:
- Treat your friend to their favourite snack or coffee
Imagine turning up to a 9 am lecture after a long tiresome week to be greeted by your friend with a warm vanilla latte and a croissant – suddenly it’s the best day ever! So, on Feb 17th, consider treating your friend to their favourite beverage or even a sweet treat and it will make their day a whole lot better.
- Compliment a stranger
This may seem like a daunting idea, but the world would be a much happier place if we were all a little kinder to each other. It can be as simple as complimenting their outfit or hairstyle, as long as it comes from a genuine place. It’s the little things that can truly make someone's day and it won't cost you a penny!
- Donate to a charity or do some volunteer work
The kindest thing you can do is support those in need. Unfortunately, sometimes the student budget doesn’t always allow this, but your time can be just as valuable as donations, so consider volunteering at your local charity shop or a food bank.
It is an important occasion to remember to not only be kind to others but also be kind to yourself. Sometimes as students, we put so much pressure on ourselves that we forget self-kindness. So, whilst you think about treating others on Feb 17th also consider treating yourself. My favourite ways to do this are having self-care days and going on long countryside walks. The Aspire Strategies app has a bunch of information about mental health and wellbeing so if being kind to yourself is something you struggle with, check them out here - https://aspirestrategies.co.uk/login
So, whilst this is a great occasion to remind us all to be kind, it is also important to be kind to others in everyday life! I want to encourage you to take part in this special day, so make sure to share the word with your loved ones and join in on the hashtag #RandomActsofKindnessDay on social media.
Never underestimate the power of a little kindness – together we can make the world a happier place!