So, you want the world to be a better place, but it all seems a little overwhelming. You are not alone. Though you may not be able to change the world on your own, you can be the impact in countless small ways – starting with you.
The good news is that we are heading in the right direction. Interestingly, 2022’s World Happiness Report – the global survey data that informs how people evaluate their lives in more than 150 countries – reveals a bright light in dark times.
“The pandemic brought not only pain and suffering but also an increase in social support and benevolence,” an abstract of the report says. “As we battle the ills of disease and war, it is essential to remember the universal desire for happiness and the capacity of individuals to rally to each other’s support in times of great need.”
Research on the link between kindness and happiness is well-documented. For example, one study suggests that happy people are more kind in the first place and can become even more content, kinder, and grateful following a simple intervention.
Another study found that kind people experience more happiness and have happier memories. And by counting acts of kindness for one week, people appear to have become more satisfied and grateful.
We can help or perform kindness that positively impacts the lives of others. Discover how engaging in such acts can create more joy and meaning in these simple but significant ways:
Also read: Kindness Is For Everyone – 5 Simple Ways To Give Back (Part 1)
Pick up litter around you – Be proactive and keep the environment clean
“It’s the simple things in life that are the most extraordinary,” said the Brazilian writer and poet Paulo Coelho. So, imagine if you could do something extraordinary for Earth by simply picking up litter around you. Whether you set out to pick up rubbish or a couple of pieces you spot along your way does not matter; every little bit helps.
Smile and nod – Recognising others make their day better
Research shows that a genuine smile combined with repeated “down-nods” is a universal way to spread contagious feelings of warmth and friendliness. For example, one study by the Society for the Study of Motivation showed that people whom a stranger has acknowledged become better connected to others immediately after the experience. And a shared smile when they reciprocate your gesture: priceless!
Pay someone a compliment – And be sincere about it!
Participating in random acts of kindness toward others can help increase your well-being. An easy way to do this is to pay compliments. Research has found that people tend to underestimate the positive impact of complimenting others. Yet, many other studies found that doing so can increase individual reciprocity and boost mood and motivation.
Check on those you care about – Even the strongest people need support
We assume nothing fazes “strong” people. But beneath smiles and brave faces can often be immense pain. People can cry out for comfort and encouragement internally but do not know how to verbalise those feelings. So, check on that friend or family member anyhow. Send a text, call, or be there.
Also read: Giving The Gift Of Life – 5 More Simple Ways To Give Back (Part 2)
Make daily gratitude lists – It sets the tone for your day
A gratitude list can positively impact your physical health, psychological well-being, and social life. And this is backed up by science: studies have shown overwhelming results after just three weeks of actively practising gratitude. Moreover, writing a daily gratitude list will slowly shift your perspective and help you become more aware of and focus on the good things in life.
Spend quality time with the family – Bring them closer, build a firm foundation
The right time to increase the quality of your relationships with your loved ones is right now. Spending time together is one of the greatest gifts you can give one another. It strengthens and builds family bonds and provides a sense of belonging and security. So, set aside time for a meal, plan outings, or create a new family tradition.
Help someone in need – A good deed keeps negativity at bay
Dedicating some time, money, or energy to help others or to a cause improves the world – and you! Studies indicate that giving back to the community can boost happiness, health, and well-being. Giving also connects to others, creating stronger communities and helping build a happier society. So, if you want to feel good, get to doing good.
Volunteer in your community – Lend enthusiastic support to your cause
Volunteering can boost your self-confidence and self-esteem, as it provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Even helping with minor tasks can make a real difference in the lives of people, animals, and organisations you set out to help. Likewise, volunteering benefits you and your family as much as the chosen cause; it enables you to make new friends, expand your network, and enhance your social skills.
What does making an impact look like in tangible ways?
Watch the video below for a few other easy tips on how every one of us can make a positive impact through simple daily actions.
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We all have it within us to be the change we want to see in the world, so Be the Impact today!
Start 2023 Right with the Next RYTHM Impact!
We all want change in the world, and the good news is that there is more than one way to do it!
Find out more about how you can #BeTheImpact in your life with RYTHM Foundation Chairperson Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran on February 15, 2023 from 4 PM–5 PM on the RYTHM Connect conversation series via Facebook LIVE.
Datin Sri Umayal will host two leaders with the passion and commitment to give back to their communities: AVP Shipra Neeraj of V Partner and Gavin Soon, Head of Platform IT at QI Group.
It’s bound to be an engaging and enlightening conversation for us all, so RSVP here to get your reminders when we go LIVE!
