Because kindness is always in season :)

Hii my lovely readers! World Kindness Day may have passed, but kindness is something we can carry with us every day. It doesn’t have to be grand or complicated, sometimes, even small acts of kindness leave the biggest impact.

You’re probably thinking, Why is this person yapping on about kindness? It’s because we all need extra care sometimes. Life can get hectic (especially as a student), but in the middle of it all, even a small act of kindness can make a big difference - not only for someone else but also for you. Your small act of kindness might be the spark that keeps someone else going, and they’re more likely to pass it on, creating a chain of kindness. Wouldn’t you want to be part of something like that?

So, in honor of World Kindness Day (or any day, really) here are a few small but meaningful ways you can brighten the day of your flatmates, coursemates, or anyone else!

1. Smiles and compliments

A warm smile and a friendly compliment can work wonders. A smile is like the universal language of kindness - it costs nothing but can mean a lot. Whether it’s your flatmate, or the barista in the coffee shop, a warm smile can make someone feel so seen and appreciated.

And compliments? They’re like little treasures that stay with people all day (or longer!). Think about it, when someone compliments your outfit, your laugh, or something you’ve worked hard on, doesn’t it feel amazing? That small moment of acknowledgment can turn an ordinary day into a memorable one.

2. Sharing is caring

Have some leftover cookies or chocolates? Offer to share! Food is also another form of love language, and surprising someone with a small snack can instantly brighten their day (can you tell I’m actually quite easy to please?). 

If you have the time and don’t mind, you could even try baking/making something for your flatmates, then you can bring people together and enjoy it with more people.

3. Kind notes

Sticky notes are made to be reminders for a reason you know? So leave a note for somebody to remind them how awesome they are, or just write a short message like "You’ve got this!". I bet it’s going to make them very happy. It’s personal, unexpected and uplifting.

4. Celebrate wins

Has your friend aced an exam? Did they get a great grade on their assignment? Did they finish that damn group project? Celebrate anything that felt like an achievement for them, no matter how big or small. Even a simple "I’m so proud of you!" can boost their confidence and show that their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.

5. Little surprises

Sometimes, it’s the unexpected gestures that mean a lot. Found a keychain that reminded you of your sibling? Get it for them as a gift - it doesn’t have to be their birthday or any special occasion. Came across a TikTok/Reel that your coursemate would love? Send it to them! These little surprises just show that you’re thinking of someone, even when you’re apart.

Recently, one of our fellow ResLife assistants, Rex, surprised our manager with a box of chocolates. It wasn’t tied to any event, just a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation, and (I’m pretty sure..?) it made our manager’s day!

Lastly...

Kindness doesn’t need a special day or a grand gesture. So, as you go about your day, take a moment to spread a little kindness. It doesn’t just brighten someone else’s day - you’ll feel great knowing you made someone’s day too.

I hope we can make kindness a habit, not just for Kindness Day, but every day. Whether it’s your friend, coursemate, family, or the stranger sitting next to you on a bus, you never know how much your small act might mean to them. If you get the chance to spread a little joy, take it.

Now, go and share a big, warm smile with someone today!