Antioch University Los Angeles wants to remind you to pay attention to the little things in the New Year. Make this year a year to practice random acts of kindness...and we might all see a change in the world.
HOLD OPEN THE ELEVATOR DOOR
It is a small act of kindness but can go a very long way. You are running late to a meeting, appointment, or your hands are full and you see those doors closing away as you near. Then in one instant, the doors come back open again and you are greeted with a smile. Don't forget to say Thank you to the kind and thoughtful person who reached out to give you a hand (and a ride in the elevator). Now it's your turn!
Pick up trash
No one likes to live in a messy house, or drive a dirty car. So when you are out and about town and you see a piece of paper or an object just lying there, do not be afraid to pick it up and put it in the nearest trash dispenser. It goes a long way to making the city and place of work look more pleasurable to others.
Feed someone's meter
We all hate the feeling of coming back to our car after visiting our favorite local coffee shop only to find a parking ticket sitting on your windshield over 10 cents you could have added to your meter. When walking down the street, if you happen to spot someone's meter being short on time, don't act like you didn't see it. It's as simple as putting in a dime or a quarter and helping someone avoid that pesky parking ticket.
Let someone with fewer groceries go ahead of you
Ever make a quick run to the grocery store for that last minute item? Avocado for your salad? Not enough lemons for that centerpiece? It's a quick grab-and-go, till it is time to stand in line that is. Be courteous to those behind you with one or two items. It's an extra minute or so but the intent and the courtesy go a long way. Be proud of yourself and smile as you say, "You have a few items, why don't you jump ahead of me."
Let someone merge in front of you on the freeway
It's the top cause of traffic across America. You see the orange construction signs or the merging arrows coming up ahead. Yet, people seem to wait to the very last minute and force themselves into your lane. Be courteous, allow some ample space and reduce your speed as you near a merging zone. Make it helpful and inviting to other trying to merge into the lane. In the end, everyone will travel at a constant speed, thus moving traffic.
Replace your shopping cart after use
Causing scrapes and dents all across America as well as occupying parking spaces that you or someone else can be using. When you are done loading up your groceries in your car, don't forget to return your shopping cart to the proper place. Make everyone's day a little easier because we all hate getting to the store and can't find a shopping cart. They belong in the store, not in the parking lot.
Take time to compliment a stranger
Don't be scared to speak to a stranger. Like the shirt they are wearing? Or, maybe their shoes? It's a simple compliment that can really make someone's day. "Excuse me, sorry to interrupt, but I really like your shoes! They are nice. " It will put a smile on someone's face or even make them laugh a little. We can all use an added smile throughout the day.
Go out of your way to thank a civil servant
They put their lives on the line everyday for people whom they have never met. They say, "Hello!" with a smile and are not shy from keeping you out of harms way. They often go unnoticed till you need them. So when you run into a fireman, police officer or any other civil servant, just give a simple "Have a good day! Thank you for your service" goes a long way
Wish somebody a happy birthday in person, not via a social network
It seems that social media is the new form of communication within our community but don't let it take over every aspect of your social life. Think of the little things that matter like making your friend or family member feel amazing on their special day by wishing them a happy birthday.
Don't talk on your cell phone in public
There are certain situations where talking on your cell phone is appropriate and acceptable but not always. Pay attention to your surrounding and if you feel that you are in a place where a phone call might be just plain annoying then hang up. Not everyone wants to hear about your day.
