Little Ways to Go Out of Your Way for Others

This article was updated on August 31st, 2021. 

Let’s face it, sometimes we get so wrapped up in our own lives that we stop thinking about how we could go out of our way for others, especially during the difficult times brought by the pandemic. This week let’s change that! Today marks the first day of International Be Kind to Humankind week, celebrated the last week of August since 1988. To kick it off the right way, here are some little, yet meaningful, ways to go out of your way for others.

Support local businesses

Too many business owners are experiencing hardship while trying to keep their business afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an excellent time to order delivery from restaurants and other companies with delivery options such as curbside pickups. If you don’t do it already, tip extra -if possible, it will undoubtedly help those in need!

Remember caretakers

Make sure you express your appreciation to as many health professionals, first responders, and social workers as you can. Whether you see them in person or through social media, don’t shy of sending your words of gratitude to this fantastic group of people that have helped us go through such challenging times.

Hold the Door Open

While this may seem minimal and somewhat insignificant, holding the door open for somebody may brighten their day. This not only portrays common courtesy, but also symbolizes respect and consideration for someone else.

Say “Thank You” For the Little Things

Sometimes we overlook those little everyday gestures that people make for us. Acts such as someone holding the elevator open as we race to get to get in it, a taxi giving us a ride, or a barista making us our vital everyday coffee are too often unreciprocated with sings of gratitude. Let’s make the effort, especially this week, to thank those that help with making our day a little easier.

Ask Someone *Meaningfully* How They’re Doing

We all partake in the thoughtless “Hi, how are you?” “Good, how are you?” rendition, but when’s the last time you took the time to really engage with someone about what’s going on in their life? Going out of your way to have a meaningful conversation with someone may cheer them up and give them the opportunity to talk about something that may be on their mind. Lending an ear always makes a difference.

Take a Chore Off Someone’s To-Do List

There never seems to be enough time in the day. Whether it be school, work or errands, everybody has a lot on their plate. Going out of your way for someone by helping them complete even a minor task will go a long way and will help make their day a little less jam-packed and stressful.

Donate!

Take some time to sort through any old clothing, school supplies or canned food you don’t plan on using and donate it to a local food drive or charity! The items you don’t need may have a huge impact on the life of someone less fortunate, and that alone is worth the extra effort.

Let Someone Know You’re Thinking of Them

Take a little time out of your day to let a loved one know you’re thinking of them. Call an old friend or write someone a little note about how much you appreciate them. Letting someone know why they’re important to you will boost their mood and show them how much you care about them.

Three Words, Eight Letters…

Say “I love you.” It’s important to tell the one’s you love not only that you love them, but also why you love them. Even if we think we don’t need to say it because they “must know we love them,” saying the words make a difference, and it will put a smile on your loved one’s face!