World Kindness Day 2022

Most of you may not know of or commemorate this day, but we are here to explain why World Kindness Day, which falls on November 13th, 2022, is sorely needed, especially today. In 2022, we are still healing from the consequences of Covid-19, and numerous places are recovering from the aftereffects of deadly floods, forest fires, and droughts. Some countries are trapped in endless war cycles, while others fight internal warfare fueled by racism, misogyny, and prominent hierarchical systems.

On the other hand, one has to question who is holding it all together. Who is keeping the world together? The answer is simple: it is people who are kind. People who go out of their way to advocate for the rights of those trapped in war-torn countries, people who recognize their privilege and become the voice of those who cannot be heard, and people who keep the light of hope alive by striving for better systems and standing up to corruption daily. 

It is also people who brighten others’ days by just smiling, complementing their outfits, donating their old winter clothes to the homeless man down the street, feeding a stray puppy, and doing so many other things that may seem insignificant but make all the difference in the world.

“Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference.” 

– Barbara De Angelis

It is also important to acknowledge how kindness helps us personally, helps our subconscious mind, and helps all around us. According to Mental Health Organization UK, “Evidence shows that helping others can also benefit our mental health and wellbeing. For example, it can reduce stress and improve mood, self-esteem, and happiness.” 

So, while we do think that showing kindness helps others around us, it’s essential to know that it helps you as well. Another taboo linked with being kind is how people assume you have to be rich to be perceived as kind. There is no truth to that statement. Being kind implies doing something that benefits you or someone else out of sincere desire and genuine intentions. 

Doing good, or being kind, frequently entails prioritizing the needs of others over our own. This can be done by giving up your bus or train seat to an older adult or calling someone out on their racist or misogynistic remarks.

Hence, there are so many ways we may include helping others in our daily lives. It need not require much effort or money to perform good things.

Here are a few ways to be kinder to those around you:

First, Be Kind To Yourself

Kindness begins with being kind to oneself. This may be accomplished in various ways; you simply need to find your own. You can be kind to yourself by eating well and staying hydrated, following a workout routine that works for you, treating yourself to a cheat meal, taking a solo trip or doing something you’ve wanted to do for a long time, rewatching your favorite childhood movie, dancing to your favorite song, taking an extra minute to make yourself tea in the morning, giving yourself a break, not being so hard on yourself and forgiving yourself for mistakes, listening to your heart, and so much more.

Second, Be Kind To Others

Making an effort to be compassionate where you live can make all the difference in the world. Not only will this make those around you feel more at ease with you, but it will also make you feel rewarded, fulfilled, and empowered.

Here are some ideas for spreading kindness:

1: Make Your Voice Heard In The Face Of Communal Injustice

You are more powerful than you realize. If you see something that you believe is unjust or unfair, stand up to the perpetrators and support the victims. Make your position known, spread the word, and assist in any way possible.

2: Support Local Businesses

Make someone’s day by ordering a meal from a home-based restaurant or bakery near you, or by purchasing handicrafts from a local shop, or simply visiting the farmer’s market.

3: Donate Generously

Donate items you no longer need to local orphanages or shelter homes, where they will be put to good use. Imagine the smiles you’ll put on your face if you donate only a box of toys or children’s story books.

You can also donate to NGOs or hospitals near you looking to help patients get free healthcare or simply work towards a cause close to you.

4: Be Empathetic No Matter Where You Go

This is, without a doubt, quite significant. When a server messes up your order, politely request a replacement while noting that everyone makes errors. Furthermore, express gratitude by making it a habit to say expressions such as thank you and please.

5: Volunteer More

Keep looking for opportunities to volunteer around you, for a beach or park cleanup, or visit the elderly at a nursing home. If you can’t find anything, try to organize it yourself!

6: Talk To Children About What’s Important

Make an effort to have meaningful discussions with your children. Inform children about diverse cultures and identities, and teach them to appreciate them. Educate children about their bodies, self-reflection, and values, and make yourself emotionally available to them.

We hope this helps you achieve a kinder you and a kinder world. On this World Kindness Day, we challenge you to perform at least one act of kindness; this extends to animals and the environment as well as to people, and see how it makes a difference in your life and the world.

Happy World Kindness Day!