14 simple acts of kindness you can do in 2 minutes or less

It doesn’t take a lot to be kind, yet the effect it can have on another can be far-reaching. Here are some simple ways to brighten someone’s day – and your own.

Slip an envelope containing a tea bag into a friend’s purse with a note inviting her to take some relaxing time for herself. Your kind action is now causing another – your friend can now be kind to herself. Find out more about the benefits of giving.

Tell a parent they’re doing a good job. (They probably rarely hear that!) You are almost guaranteed to be rewarded with a shy but bright smile in return. Sometimes the simplest things mean the most. Here are 50 of the best simple pleasures that make life worth living.

Whenever you see someone taking a family photo, offer to snap the shot so everyone can be included in the moment. You never know – that photo could be featured on their holiday card that year or become a treasured memento. And people almost always offer to return the favour! Discover all about the power of gratitude here.

Be kind to the earth! Turn off the tap while you brush your teeth, switch to paperless billing, recycle, use energy-efficient light bulbs, use a refillable water bottle, and bring cloth bags to the supermarket. We only have one planet, we need to keep it clean and protected! Here are 7 simple earth-friendly habits you can adopt today.

Moving? Tape a list with the names and numbers of local plumbers, electricians, and dry cleaners, along with other helpful information, on a kitchen bench for the new owners. The last thing a new homeowner has time for is researching reputable repair companies. Your list will eliminate a lot of hassle and stress. Here are 4 more ways to reduce the stress of moving.

Take the time to learn the name of someone who regularly helps you out – whether it’s a security guard, a doorman, or a cashier at the supermarket. Greet them by name. This seemingly small gesture will demonstrate how greatly you value your local service people and your interactions with them.

If you know someone who is having a hard time, text them a pun or a joke. You’ll brighten up their day and take their mind off difficult thoughts, even if it’s just for a moment. You can also text suggestions of funny podcasts for an added dose of comedy medicine. PS If you laugh at these dark jokes, you’re probably a genius.

The next time the kids want to go to the playground bring bottles of bubbles, large pieces of chalk and stickers, and leave them in a central location for kids to help themselves. The kids will have a blast, you will get some well-needed rest and relaxation and other mothers and fathers on the playground will appreciate the kind gesture.

Do you want an easy way to pay it forward? When you’re finished reading a newspaper or magazine on a bus or train, leave it in the seat pocket so the next person who boards can read it for free. What an easy way to put a smile on someone’s face and cure commuter boredom with free entertainment! Better still, it won’t be cluttering up your own home. Here are 30 other ideas for saving space at home.