Random acts of kindness serve a dual purpose. They not only make other people feel good but they make you feel good as well. There are so many different ways that you can perform a random act of kindness throughout your day, and if you take the time to grab the opportunity you will thank yourself later.

Here are just a few ways you can do random acts of kindness that will have you feeling good from the inside out.

Help someone out - Take the time to help someone carry something that is too heavy, or reach for something in the store that they can’t reach.

Lend an Ear To Someone in Need – Listening is one of the greatest gifts we can offer someone. I mean really listening to what they have to say and understanding their point of view. You will make them feel validated and possibly help them work through a major issue they are having.

Surprise someone – Whether you just call someone you haven’t heard from in a while, or if you go out and buy someone something they wanted, surprising them can make them feel really good. You may even brighten up a gloomy day.

Donate – Try donating to your local food bank or shelter on a regular basis. To donate to people who have less than you will not only make their lives better, but it will also make you appreciate what you have.

Be courteous – Most people will not let you in front of them in line for any reason. People do not want to give up that extra inch they have whether they are standing in line or driving in rush hour. Be a courteous person and let people get ahead of you sometimes. You will shock them, and you will show them there are people out there who think about others first.

Take notice of others – We live in our own bubble, that’s for sure. We can walk down a street and not see anyone even if the street is crowded. Take the time to notice others and appreciate their differences. Say something nice to someone to make them feel noticed. Just a quick hello and smile can brighten someone’s day.

Pick up after someone – Instead of yelling at someone for throwing garbage on the ground, or leaving their shopping cart in the middle of the parking lot, try picking up after them. You will feel better for not yelling and you may even inspire them to start picking up after themselves. People don’t respond well to yelling but kindness is a different story.

Be kind to yourself – Do something you love and something that makes you happy. Buy something you want that will make your life more fun or easier. You owe yourself as much kindness as you give to other people. After all, you are with yourself 24 hours a day, you might as well be good to yourself!