‘One Small Act, One Big Difference: The Power of Kindness’

Did you know that performing a random act of kindness can increase happiness by 42%? 

Not only does the giver experience a boost in well-being, but the recipient does too, creating a mutually beneficial cycle of positivity. 

Now, imagine what would happen if we all embraced small, everyday acts of kindness. February 17th is ‘Random Acts of Kindness Day’, making it the perfect opportunity to start this cycle. 

Think about how you’d feel if someone bought you a coffee or gave you an unexpected compliment. Why wouldn’t you want to make someone else feel that way? Because when you make someone feel good—you feel good, too. And it’s not just a nice idea—it’s backed by science. Let me explain.

When we engage in acts of kindness, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin, often called the ‘happy hormones’. These chemicals boost our mood, reduce stress, and promote happiness. 

But that’s not all—kindness is also deeply rewarding on a neurological level. A 2017 study published in Nature Communications found that even the most minor acts of kindness activate the brain’s reward centre—the exact part that lights up when you exercise or eat your favourite food! So, it’s no wonder that kindness makes us feel so good. And here’s where it gets even more powerful: kindness is contagious. 

Studies show that when people witness an act of kindness, they’re more likely to pay it forward—the ripple effect. Thanks to mirror neurons, our brains are wired to empathise with and mimic the behaviours we see, meaning one small act can inspire many more. Beyond boosting our individual well-being, kindness also strengthens social connections and fosters a sense of community. And that’s good for our health too! Research shows that people with strong social ties experience lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. In other words, being part of a kind and supportive community helps combat loneliness and improves overall mental and physical health.

So, as you can see, it’s not just laughter that’s the best medicine—it’s kindness.

What acts of kindness can you do on the 17th of February? Let me share a couple of our faves. Firstly, ideas for random acts of kindness you can try out with strangers:

Buy a coffee for the person behind you in line.

Leave a kind note in a public space.

Offer a genuine compliment.

If engaging with strangers makes you anxious, you can also do something kind your friends & family. You could; 

                                      Send a thoughtful message or check in on someone.

Surprise a loved one with a small gift or gesture.

Offer to help with a task or chore.

Or if you want to make a big change to the community; 

Volunteer at a food bank 

Donate unused items to those in need.

Support a small business 

Even though ‘Random Acts of Kindness Day’ falls on February 17th, kindness shouldn’t be limited to just one day—we should practice it daily. The good news is that it doesn’t take much to make kindness a habit.

Start by setting a simple goal: one act of kindness a day. It doesn’t have to be grand—small gestures, like holding the door for someone or sending a kind message, can make a difference. Over time, these little moments will become second nature, turning kindness into a daily routine.

A great way to stay motivated is to keep a kindness journal. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the kind acts you’ve done or received. Not only does this reinforce positive behaviour, but it also serves as a reminder of how good kindness makes you feel—boosting your mood even on tough days.

By making kindness a daily habit, you’ll brighten someone else’s day and cultivate a more positive, fulfilling life for yourself.

So, what’s the key takeaway from today’s science lesson? Kindness is the best medicine for a happier, healthier you.

This February, let’s start spreading kindness—because, as Aesop wisely said, ‘’No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”