In the ever-expanding digital age , it seems as if we are becoming more and more transactional by the day. Kindness is under attack and empathy is slowly disappearing.
This cannot stand. It’s time we all take a hard left turn and check out these 15 thoughtful gestures that we should all be doing more of.
Ensuring that friends and family arrive home safely.
“If you are driving someone home. At night, wait for them to get to the door, unlock and enter before you leave.” – Reddit u/2cats2hats
I cannot stress this enough — don’t leave until you see the door close behind them!
Use manners and be polite.
It’s a sad statement that in 2021 people still need to be reminded to say “please” and “thank you.” Gratitude and a positive attitude will carry you far in life, as will good table manners and proper etiquette.
Actually remembering tiny insignificant details.
“The other day I was talking to a friend and told him I just found out my sister is pregnant and he said “oh, the one who’s married to Brad?”. It was just nice that he makes a point to remember details that don’t necessarily mean anything to him.” – Reddit u/01kaj10
Give someone an unsolicited compliment.
Compliments are something that should be given freely and never kept to one’s self. If you like the look of your friend’s shirt — tell them. If your father cooked you an immaculate meal, let him know!
Telling someone that they’re doing something embarrassing.
“Telling someone they got a booger just hanging for its dear life or their fly is open. Embarrassing but better than walking around with it like it’s in vogue.” – Reddit u/Wiknetti
Holding a door open for someone.
I understand that we all have busy lives and that sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. But try for a moment to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Hold that door, and extend a helping hand.
“Really listening when people speak and not just waiting for your turn to talk.” – Reddit u/deleted
Just because someone can hear you doesn’t mean that they’re listening. Be an active participant in a conversation: engage with what the other person is saying. You’ll get your turn to speak, just be patient.
I just called to say “I love you.”
The idea that you need a reason or an excuse to message a friend or family member is ludicrous. It’s perfectly fine to text someone completely out of the blue, with no ulterior motive whatsoever other than to check-in and si “hi.”
“Saying “Hi” to the security guard.” – Reddit u/chenzo17
Being a security guard can be thankless at times. That small gesture of simply acknowledging another human being’s existence can go a long way as far as turning someone’s day around is concerned.
Remember the Golden Rule: the cook never cleans.
The next time someone goes through the trouble of cooking you a proper meal, do the right thing and clean up afterward. It doesn’t take much to rinse a plate and place it into the dishwasher.
“Pedestrians who give a little nod or a wave to front cars that stopped for them.” – Reddit u/twiistedtwilight
I am all about the courtesy wave while I’m out driving on the road; it’s a small gesture that goes a long way. Yes, pedestrians have the right-of-way but it’s still nice to be acknowledged.
Remembering someone’s name.
When you meet someone for the first time, repeat their name back to them and then try to use it at your first available opportunity. Having to ask someone to repeat their name is the ultimate form of disregard.
Making the new person feel welcomed.
“Every time there’s a new person at work, I recall what it was like being the new guy and go out my way to make them feel comfortable and let them know that I’ll answer any questions judgement free[sic]. – Reddit u/RalfHorris
Sending someone flowers for no reason at all.
There’s nothing wrong with sending someone a beautiful bouquet for no other reason other than it’s a Wednesday. Most grocery stores have a flowers section where you can buy premade bouquets for next to nothing.
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“Letting someone with minimal items cut in front of you at the grocery checkout.” – Reddit u/deleted
I try my best to not put my own needs above those of perfect strangers. But if you see me at the grocery store with a pound of sugar under my arm while you’re pushing around an entire cart — just let me pass.
What kind gesture do you think we need more of? Leave a comment and let us know!
h/t: Reddit
