10 acts of kindness you can do from home

Infusing your day with acts of kindness not only helps others, it can provide a healthy distraction from your own challenges and boost your mood. Here are 10 suggestions for simple acts of kindness you can do from home.

  1. Write to a friend. Getting a thoughtful note in the mail is sure to put a smile on their face. If you choose to go the virtual route, you can always text or email someone who could use some cheering up.
  2. Check in on a family member. Call a relative with whom you’ve fallen out of touch. Start the conversation with a memory that means something to you both.
  3. Plant a tree. Do something kind for the planet by planting a tree or a garden in your backyard.
  4. Give someone a compliment. Whether it’s in person to someone you live with, or an online comment on social media or your favorite blog, a compliment can go a long way.
  5. Tip your delivery person extra. If you have food delivered, add a couple extra dollars to what you would normally tip.
  6. Share your favorite recipe with a friend. Even if we can’t get together to break bread, it doesn’t mean we can’t share a part of our kitchen inspiration.
  7. Do a chore that is normally done by your spouse, child, or roommate. Everyone could use a little break, and if you’re lucky maybe they’ll return the favor some time.
  8. Give your closet a thorough clean-out. Next time you declutter, donate your unwanted clothes to charity or a friend who is in need.
  9. Leave positive sticky notes around the house. Write down words of encouragement and post them around the house for you or your significant other to find.
  10. Send virtual letters to military personnel or hospital patients. Look online for ways to send virtual mail to those overseas or in hospitals to brighten their day.

Source: Ochsner Health