10 simple ideas to spread kindness in your world

Being kind has been linked with releasing feel-good hormones, having reduced stress and even living longer, and it’s something we can all do to improve our mental wellbeing and the world around us.

Being kind isn’t just something we can do for other people. It’s important to be kind to ourselves and be mindful about what we personally need to be happy and healthy.

We’ve asked some R U OK? Ambassadors to share tips on how to spread kindness, so you can brighten your world and the world of others.

How can you spread kindness?

1. Bianca Dye: For me kindness is about ‘random acts of kindness’, it’s about keeping your eye out for opportunities - no matter how small - and doing something for somebody else to make them feel good about their situation.

2. Kevin Heath: Spreading kindness can be as simple as starting a conversation. It doesn’t have to be a really deep conversation - just letting people feel connected and heard can really turn someone’s day around and give them the confidence to keep connecting with others.

3. Rob Mills: It can be as small as giving a compliment to a colleague at work, or giving someone a call to say thanks.

4. Sam Mac: Life and work can move so fast that we rarely get time to properly appreciate the achievements of our colleagues. Taking the time to give someone a detailed “thank you” or “well done” can mean more than you'll ever know. Everybody wants to be loved and everybody deserves to know when they're doing a great job.

5. Rowena Saheb: Be kind to yourself. When you understand the value and impact of kindness for yourself, you will incorporate into your daily cache of goodness towards others.

6. Emilie Emond: Don't underestimate the power of a smile. Before you even say anything, a smile lets the other person know you are there for them. It's an easy way to brighten someone's day!

7. Ryan Daykin: Ask a friend out for lunch or give someone a call out of the blue and ask them how they are doing.

8. Alli Langdon: Think how our actions affect others and do one kind thing a day - it could be as simple as saying hello to a stranger.

9. Ben Burgess: Treat others how you wish to be treated - being kind is free.

10. Barry Conrad: Never withhold encouragement or pass up an opportunity to make someone’s day. If you think something positive about a person, tell them.