When my daughters were younger, I frequently took them to the Fort Worth Zoo. They loved watching all the animals play and run. They even liked watching them enjoy some lazy naps. One time, while we were walking down the main pathway, we came across another family struggling to go up a flight of steps. The mom was holding the hand of their toddler and the dad was trying to carry the stroller up the steps by himself. Without hesitation, I rushed over and helped the dad carry the stroller over the remaining stairs.
When I returned to my girls, they asked me why I helped a man I didn’t know. I told them, “Everyone needs a little help now and then and it’s everyone’s job to help when they can.”
We all have the capacity to be kind and helpful. But sometimes it isn’t always evident right away. Sometimes, they need a little nudge or reminder. Luckily there are some really easy ways to help spread kindness this holiday season.
Appreciate Others Openly
Tell the people closest to you how much you truly care for them. If someone does something for you, no matter how big or small the gesture, shake their hand, look them in the eye and tell them thank you. Showing others how much you appreciate them will help brighten their day and remind them how important they are.
Be Generous
If you can give a little bit extra, whatever it is, do it. It doesn’t have to be a big production. It may be tipping your server an extra dollar or two at dinner. It could be buying the person in line behind you a cup of coffee. Or it could be spending an extra five minutes talking to a friend that you haven’t seen in a while. Being generous with what you have will help brighten others’ day and encourage them to do the same.
Share Your Food
There’s truth to the old saying that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Few things bring out the kindness in others like food. Share a meal or something sweet with a coworker, friend or neighbor. They’ll truly appreciate the gesture. And if it’s homemade, that’s even better.
Show Up
It doesn’t seem like much, but the simple act of showing up has a tremendous positive effect on others. Whether it’s a friend’s birthday, your nephew’s soccer game or your neighbor’s book club, show up and give your support if you’re invited. It may not be your thing, but you’ll definitely make their day by being there.
Smile
You’d be surprise how the simple act of smiling can affect the mood of those around you. By smiling and being cheerful you can spread positivity around. You don’t have to go to any extremes. Just smile at people when you talk to them and nod your head in appreciation. They’ll pick up on it and start doing it themselves.
I’ve always been amazed and grateful for the kindness of others. When I see people helping complete strangers, it gives me encouragement that this world that I’m raising my daughters in will still be a good place when it’s time for them to raise their own family.
Speaking of my daughters, the ones who questioned why I helped that stranger at the zoo? They recently asked to donate their report card money to a couple of local charities. Kindness is contagious and I hope you catch it, too.
From all of us here at Flex Tech, we wish you a very Happy Holiday Season!