All Topics, Lifestyle

10 Acts of Kindness You Should Carry Out This Christmas

Christmas is a time for giving, and what better way is there than by carrying out more acts of kindness. Although this time of year is full of fun and festivities for a large number of us, there are also people who find it a struggle. Here are 10 simple acts of kindness which you can carry out to spread the Christmas spirit. 

Donate to Your Local Food Bank

At this time of year food banks are used even more. With the amount of food that we end up wasting over the Christmas period, it’s unfair that anyone should go hungry. A lot of us spend an obscene amount of money on our own Christmas food. Pick up a few extra items and drop them off at the food bank collection point on the way out of the store. It’s unlikely you’ll notice those few extra pounds, but they’ll make a world of difference to a family in need.

Skip The Christmas Cards 

We spend so much money and waste so many trees by sending out Christmas cards. This one may seem a little counter-intuitive, surely not sending out Christmas cards isn’t kind? Well, it is if you buy some treats for the office and donate the rest of what you would have spent instead. E-cards are also a great alternative. 

But if You Are Sending Them… Send The Spare to Those in Need 

If you’re hell-bent on sending cards (or have already bought them) then make sure to send them to the lonely. There are a lot of local campaigns at this time of year run by hospitals, charities or nursing homes which appeal for Christmas cards to be sent to those in danger of being lonely, or just those in need of a little extra love this year. If you can’t find any (or you’ve missed the deadline) then send your spare to local charities letting them know what a good job they’re doing and that they’re appreciated. 

Pay it Forward

I’m always touched by those who go out of their way to give someone the extra few hours on their car parking ticket or a money off voucher that they won’t have the chance to use. In Waitrose recently, a lady passed me a ‘£4 off when you spend £40 voucher’. Every little helps, and I was able to donate more to the food bank as a result. There are many little gestures you can make which will only take moments of your time but will help someone else.

Shop Locally 

From Christmas gifting to food to the decorations you put up; buy locally where possible. I can guarantee that buying your Christmas outfit from a similar small brand will put a smile on a face, which can’t be said when shopping from big brands. 

Check in on Your Local Shelter 

Give your local homeless shelter a google. At this time of year, they’re usually requesting specific items that you can donate. Mine, for example, is in need of Christmas decorations, second-hand clothing, food and toiletries. None of these cost a lot and donating comfy and practical clothes that you no longer wear will help you with your new year clear out too.

Give Charity Gifts

A charity gift is perfect for anyone who has recently watched and been left heartbroken by Dynasties. If you’re stuck on a gift or are in need of something extra then adopt a penguin in the recipients’ name through WWF; it’s a win-win.

Share & Buy From Your Favourite Gift Guides

At this time of year, almost every blogger will have worked hard on pulling together the perfect gift guide. There are plenty to choose from and there is one for everyone too. If you’ve benefitted from any, make sure you reward all the hard work by buying through affiliate links. If you’ve found inspiration for your own list to Santa then share the post around to your loved ones; even a few more post and page views will be appreciated. 

Be Mindful 

Many people have lost someone close to them over previous Winters. While its a happy time for many of us, Christmas can also serve as an unpleasant reminder. If this makes you think of someone close to you, then be mindful of them at this time of year. Show them some extra love by sending some flowers or getting them a memorial bauble to let them know that you remembered and you’re there for them.

Put Yourself Forward as The Designated Driver 

Save everyone the danger of reckless driving, or even just a taxi fare. You’ll be doing your good deed and will also be saving yourself a hangover and alcohol money!