Between the “Be Kind” graphic T-shirts in every department store and Harry Styles crooning his signature reminder to “Treat People With Kindness,” the concept of kindness is rather trendy in our current climate.
But kindness goes beyond a fleeting trend or a singular act; it’s a lifestyle and mindset shift that implores us to meet the world — and each other — with greater empathy and justice.
Kindness asks us to extend our approach beyond niceties and good manners, and into transformative action, compassionate and intentional inclusion, and empowering solutions.
Kindness is a choice, a muscle we all flex, and could frankly use a little more of our attention.
World Kindness Day — which takes place every year on November 13 — is a great opportunity to deepen our relationship with kindness and connect with one another in new and exciting ways.
We’ve compiled some ideas to help you celebrate World Kindness Day and World Kindness Week.
By the way, some of the links in this article (like books!) are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!
What is World Kindness Day?
World Kindness Day is an international holiday first introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement. The holiday is devoted to promoting kindness throughout the world, understanding the positive potential of large and small acts of kindness, and unifying together as human beings.
Activities To Celebrate World Kindness Day —
Learn
Learn about the science of kindness.
There is real science about the power of being kind. In fact, research even suggests that doing good for others is contagious. Now that’s a virus we can get behind!
Learn a little more about the science behind kindness and then apply what you’ve learned to the relationships and situations in your life. Here are a few resources to get you started:
- The Science of Kindness by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation
- The Bystander Effect Experiment as part of Participant’s “Science of Empathy” series
Read a book about kindness.
Whether you’re shopping picture books for your kiddo or doing your own reading, there are loads of incredible books out there that teach us more about being kind to one another.
Check out some our recommendations:
- “The Power of Kindness: The Unexpected Benefits of Leading a Compassionate Life” by Piero Ferrucci | Read on Amazon | Read on Bookshop | Listen on Libro.fm
- “Be Kind” by the Dalai Lama | Read on Amazon | Read on Bookshop
- “Deep Kindness: A Revolutionary Guide for the Way We Think, Talk, and Act in Kindness” By Houston Kraft | Read on Amazon | Read on Bookshop | Listen on Libro.fm
- “The War for Kindness: Building Empathy in a Fractured World” by Jamil Zaki | Read on Amazon | Read on Bookshop | Listen on Libro.fm
Listen to a talk or a podcast about kindness.
Would you rather get your kindness info in audio format? We’ve got you covered!
Here are a few amazing talks and podcasts about kindness to add to your queue:
- “Maia & Alex Shibutani — Taking Kindness to the Olympics” on Sounds Good
- “Orly Wahba — Using Kindness to Empower Others” on Sounds Good
- “Kindness Legacy: How Small Acts of Kindness Create Global Impact” by Denise Walker for TEDxWhite Rock
- “James Rhee on Kindness, Math, and the Power of Goodwill” on Dare to Lead with Brené Brown
- “The Power of Kindness” by Raegan Hill for TEDxDeerfield
Read and share quotes about making a difference for others.
If there’s one thing we love at Good Good Good, it’s a really great quote. Bite-size words of wisdom from leaders and changemakers really can compel us to do more good — or at least take part in our collective humanity.
We’ve compiled a list of the best quotes about kindness — check it out!
Here are a few more quote roundups to give you a little inspiration:
- Quotes about optimism (from optimists)
- Quotes about making a difference in the world
- Quotes about hope to encourage & inspire you
- Quotes about activism (from activists)
- Quotes about social justice
- Quotes about positivity
Random Acts of Kindness
Do a random act of kindness.
Pledge to yourself that you will do at least one random act of kindness each day. While these actions might seem small, that doesn’t make them any less important.
You’d be surprised how picking up litter, leaving a review for a favorite local business, or writing a thank you note to a teacher can make a positive impact on yourself and your community.
We’ve even compiled a list of over 100 ideas to practice random acts of kindness — check it out!
Help one person.
We know it might seem trite, but even helping one person makes a massive impact. The ripple effect of doing something that lightens the load for someone makes it that much easier for them to do the same for someone else… and so on.
Whether you’re babysitting for a friend for free, cooking a meal for your neighbor, or even just letting someone go first before you in line, your one small action can change the trajectory of their entire day, week, or even month.
Help a lot of people by advocating for systemic change.
Kindness is not only limited to our neighbors, but our entire world. Practice kindness by advocating for the planet, for entire communities of people, or even your school curriculum.
Taking action can take shape in a lot of different ways. Start by thoughtfully consuming the news, calling your elected officials, supporting mutual aid funds, or volunteering to support a cause you care about.
We can’t change the entire world all on our own, but what we do within our communities and circles mobilizes everyone around us to move the needle, too.
Other Ways to Take Action
Put up a Don’t Give Up sign.
In response to increased suicide rates, Amy Wolff of Oregon, started putting up yard signs with hopeful messages like “don’t give up,” and “you’re worthy of love.”
Her neighbors caught on and wanted in on the action, and quickly the initiative grew into a full nonprofit, distributing signs and other “Don’t Give Up” products around the world.
Whether you order via Wolff’s organization or make a sign of your own, something as simple as a reminder not to give up can be a tremendous act of kindness for others.
Be a little kinder to yourself, too.
While it is vital to make a difference in the lives of others, we all know that we fundamentally cannot pour from an empty cup. Being kind to yourself, taking more time to rest, and investing in your own care is an act of love for yourself, and for the people around you.
Start by incorporating some proactive self-care ideas (not just hot cocoa and face masks, but those are great, too!) into your routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of World Kindness Day?
As outlined by the World Kindness Movement, an NGO composed of organizations from around the globe, the purpose of World Kindness Day is “to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us.”
Celebrations of World Kindness Day have included concerts, dance events, distribution of “kindness cards,” speaking events, mental health advocacy, and more.
What is the theme of World Kindness Day 2022?
The theme of World Kindness Day 2022 is “Be Kind Whenever Possible.” The theme is taken from a Dalai Lama quote: “Be kind whenever possible,” His Holiness says. “It is always possible.”
What is the hashtag for World Kindness Day 2023?
The primary hashtag for World Kindness Day is simply #WorldKindnessDay, though many people also use #WKD, #SpreadKindness, #BeKind, #KindnessMatters, #Kindness, and #KindnessDay.
What color do you wear for World Kindness Day?
You can wear whatever color you’d like for World Kindness Day! There is no official color for the holiday. In the past folks have worn cardigans in honor of Fred Rogers, or encouraged people to wear yellow, as it symbolizes happiness and gratitude.
When did World Kindness Day start?
World Kindness Day is an international holiday first introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement. Although not officially recognized by the United Nations, the holiday is now celebrated around the world annually on November 13.
