Random Acts of Kindness/Pay It Forward

During the holidays, especially in the cold winters of Toronto, I realize what makes me the happiest. It's seeing someone pay it forward. That is, to perform Random Act of Kindness (RAK). It's one of life's greatest pleasures; helping someone who possibly cannot help you back.

Here's a list of ways to pay it forward:

-If you talk to a friend about the good things another person does, tell that original person. Rarely do we ever tell a person that inspires us that they do so. They may not need the credit, but it does motivate them in times of need that we may never notice. Everyone deserves a compliment at some point in their lives and sometimes the people who deserve a compliment the most, receive it the least.

-Conversely, if you're talking bad things about another person, just don't! It doesn't help  you or the other person . The person you're complaining to, as well as others who might hear the conversation, might think differently of you. They may think less of you for attacking another person, even if you feel it's justified. And you never know when that person may have an opportunity to affect your life, whether it be a job interview or talking about you to another person. You can see how it can become a cycle of gossip. You may also affect their perception of that person before they can meet the person and make a decision for themselves. It might be healthier to confront the person about your feelings than talk about them behind their back. Venting about a situation is justified; just make sure the person you're venting to knows that you're just venting.

-If someone raises their hand in class and the teacher/professor cannot see them, raise your hand and alert the prof. It may be nerve-wracking, but it helps the student get their question answered, and it allows the professor to make sure everyone in their class is on the same page.

-Saying hello and have a good day to random people. You never know whose day you might be making by acknowledging them. Sometimes, we appreciate random people's opinion more than our friends. Applying this logic, acknowledging random people should also make people happy.

-That being said, take time to acknowledge people that you do know when they walk by when you're not busy. It's hard sometimes but even if you're not sure you remember them, it doesn't hurt to say hello to someone.

I'll add more to this list as I come up with them. If you have any other Random Acts of Kindness, pay it forward and share it with others!