When I discovered that World Kindness Day is this week (Friday, November 13), I began to reflect on the many times that kindness has been shown to me. I thought about:
- The stranger who paid for my drink in the Starbucks drive-thru.
- A mom who, time and time again, has dropped everything in her life to make sure that I am taken care of (and am fed lots of homemade brownies!)
- A boss who asks how I am doing personally and truly listens to the answer.
- A friend who has taken time out of her busy schedule to encourage me, whether that be via text message or over a plate of hot wings (one of my favorite ways to spend quality time with others!)
There are three ways to ultimate success. The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind. —Mr. Rogers
Random acts of kindness can be shown anywhere, and one of the best places to begin is at the office! Co-workers often deal with circumstances you may never know about; when navigating those circumstances, a little bit of kindness goes a long way. Take a look at 12 COVID-friendly, low-cost ways to extend kindness to your co-workers—not only on World Kindness Day but every day.
- Pick up a co-worker’s favorite Starbucks drink. If working from home, deliver the drink through a company such as UberEats or GrubHub.
- Leave a personal recommendation on a LinkedIn profile.
- Ask how someone’s day is going, and truly listen to the answer given.
- Offer to mentor a new co-worker.
- Bring in a book to pass on.
- Create and share a custom playlist for your co-worker to enjoy.
Have courage and be kind. —Cinderella’s Mother
- Give a compliment.
- Simply share a smile!
- Or…give your co-worker a compliment AND share a smile at the same time.
- Tell a joke. I have found that Disney jokes are typically a hit.
- Leave a freshly-baked treat on your co-worker’s desk, like a donut you picked up on your morning coffee run.
- Bring in or mail a hand-written note of appreciation. If you need guidance on crafting the note’s message, here are a few great suggestions to get you started.
The list goes on, but remember Aesop said that “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” In fact, some of the most impactful acts of kindness in my life have been a simple phrase spoken in less than five seconds or a gesture made in five minutes. The important thing is to keep it going—because kindness often goes much further than you could ever imagine.
How are you spreading random acts of kindness throughout your office? Email marah-whitaker@utc.edu and let me know!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Marah Whitaker (think Laura with an M) serves as the marketing assistant for the UTC Center for Professional Education. During the workday, she spends time writing blog posts, creating content for social media, developing email campaigns, and building relationships with CPE’s customer base. During her free time, you can find her getting lost in a good book, having spontaneous dance parties, playing piano, and going to Buffalo Wild Wings on Wing Night. Professionally and personally, she aspires to live by Mr. Feeny’s advice, “Dream. Believe. Try. Do Good.” She strives to use her passions to serve others and contribute positively to the world around her.
Connect with Marah on LinkedIn.