The world may seem like a pretty tough place sometimes, and it really is, especially for those less privileged ones and down on their luck. Most of the problems people are facing are complex and require long-term and communal solutions. However, every change can start with a simple gesture or an idea.

These small acts of kindness are sometimes all it takes to make someone’s day, so start your day off by trying to make a change in people’s lives.

Start a piggy bank for a cause

You probably have loose change lying around the house that you never plan to use. Put it all in a piggy bank and don’t open it until it’s completely full. You can add a bit of money every day or use it as a swear jar; in any case, just make sure that you keep adding the money.

Decide on a charity or a cause that the money will be dedicated to. It could be something that’s based in your community or a larger cause that has gained your interest. You could decide whether you want to spend the money on a specific project or just donate it and let the organization choose how to spend it.

Donate used books

Donating books may seem as a simple and insignificant act, but it could really mean a lot to your local community. Sort out your old books and see which ones you could live without. Prior to donating the books to your community’s library, you can discuss it with the local librarians first, but it’s not mandatory since they will probably appreciate any kind of donation.

Libraries aren’t the only institutions that need books. Local retirement communities, hospitals, or even prisons also need them, so you could ask around and donate some books to them as well.

Be an educator

A gift of knowledge is one of the best things you could give to someone. There are numerous government funded courses designed to help the underprivileged, elderly or people with disabilities. Donating your time and knowledge to teaching one of these courses is one of the kindest things you can do.

The courses often deal with child care or support for the elderly, meaning that your personal experience may be enough to participate in the course even if you previously didn’t undergo any professional medical training.

Coach a kids’ sports team

Coaching a sports team is such a rewarding experience. It allows kids to exercise regularly and spend time outdoors, but the list of benefits doesn’t stop there. Being a coach is also a way to pass on the values of team spirit and teamwork that is inseparable from any sports match.

There are no universal rules on how to do it. It depends on the sport and the age of the kids. The only thing that’s sure is that you need to use positive reinforcement and use the practices to teach kids about hard work and fair play. One step further from coaching sports teams is to start fundraisers for sports teams. My next act of kindness will be to look into how to raise money for these young teams to help make their dreams come true!

Smile

This doesn’t seem like an especially big act, but it might be the most important one. Being positive and warm in everyday interactions will make your day so much better both for you and people you live and work with. This doesn’t take too much effort, but still, so many of us forget to do it.

Simple pleasantries, like saying “thank you” and “have a good day”, could have a similar effect because most people just go about their day and don’t feel appreciated for the work they do. Make their day and show them you care.

It’s easy to be kind. Just make an effort to invest a bit of your time and energy to help others and make them feel appreciated with these simple acts of kindness. It will be a rewarding and transforming experience.