Spring is in the air, and we don’t know about you, but that just gets us in the mood to get out into the world and spread a little kindness. It costs nothing to be kind, and in general it makes us, and the receiving person, feel pretty good. Studies have shown that performing random acts of kindness is good for our mental health, so whether it’s gifting a rose to a stranger or volunteering for the day, here are ten ways you can show a little kindness. 

1. Compliment a stranger. The next time you’re standing in line or at the park with your toddler, let a stranger know that you think they have a nice smile, or that their perfume smells nice. Sometimes a random compliment can turn someone's whole day around. Who knows, you might even strike up a conversation and make a new friend. 
2. Tell your waitress, cashier, or other essential worker that you appreciate their time. The service industry can be tough, with a lot of harsh people to deal with. Offering a genuine smile and kind affirmation that their time is valued could go a long way.
3. Have a judgment free day. We can often get caught in our heads. We may quickly judge someone's outfit, or quietly disapprove of someone's parenting style. Why not pick one day where you choose not to judge anyone? Rather observe and let it go. 
4. Buy a shelter coupon or a snack for a homeless person. With homelessness on the rise globally, a small act of support can boost morale and offer some dignity to those less fortunate than we are.
5. Acknowledge someone in your life who needs praise. Maybe your cousin has been getting really good grades recently, or your aunt has finally left her toxic relationship. Who in your inner circle could use a nod of approval? Knowing our efforts haven’t gone unnoticed can do wonders for how we feel about our accomplishments. 
6. Hold the door for others. This is a simple, well-mannered practice that doesn’t apply only to men. Holding the door for a busy mom, an elderly person, or just someone who looks like they need a hand is a wonderfully nice thing to do. Wouldn't you appreciate this small act from a stranger?
7. Put your phone away during a conversation. One sure way to show that we care is to be present when others talk. Not only does it lead to more meaningful conversation, it is also a sign of respect. So the next time you have a conversation, keep your phone off the table.
8. Leave a thank you note for delivery drivers. It can be thankless work driving around cities all day dropping items on porches or in mailboxes. Why not leave a little sticky note expressing your appreciation for the convenient service they offer you?
9. Find an organization or charity you care about. Whether it’s a weekly, monthly or once-off engagement, volunteering your time makes the world of difference to understaffed charities trying to make a difference. So find a cause you care about, grab your kids or your girlfriends, and make a day of it.
10. Share a positive comment online. The next time you are scrolling social media, leave a little love letter for someone to find. It can be incredibly reassuring to know that social media is not just filled with trolls and nasty people. So make it a positive space with a nice little comment for all to see.

If you have any random acts of kindness you’d like to share, leave us a comment @thejmkcollection and let’s spread some positivity this spring!