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Many people wonder how to change the world for the better. The answer? One random act of kindness at a time. If you want to be respected, or just want to be nice, follow this step by step article!

  1. It may seem small, but it doesn't take a lot of time or effort, and someone holding open a door with a smile can make someone's day. Helping or just being courteous to other people can make you feel good about yourself.
  2. Let others in front of you when there is a back up. Move up a little so the soccer mom ten cars back can get into the proper lane to make her turn and get the kids to soccer practice on time for a change.
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  3. Give up your seat on the train or bus or any other transport. Of course, if you are eight months pregnant and need to sit, keep the seat. But if you think someone else needs it more than you, let them have the seat. You will feel good about it and you will make the person who you were generous to feel happy. [2]
    • If you see an elderly person having difficulty crossing the street, offer them your hand and walk with them. As you cross the street, walk on the side of traffic. [3]
    • Be patient when you're standing behind an elderly person in line. Sometimes, people get agitated and frustrated when an elderly person takes a while to get organized, and that's not appropriate. [4]
  4. If someone is missing a few cents for their purchase in a store, give it to them.
  5. Give generously to organizations which feed the homeless.
  6. They need to know you care (especially if you are the only one who does).
  7. Obey your parents if you are a kid, and do your chores and homework. If you are all grown up, call your parents once in a while.
  8. Apart from our own needs and satisfaction, one needs to offer a helping hand to the immediate society as well. This can be done in small ways, yet in significant ways. Offering a neighbor to switch on the lights, or to feed their pet when they are away are examples of gestures that reciprocate kindness.
  9. Attempt to protect the planet by contributing to the upkeep of public parks, gardens that fall outside the realms of your property etc. By helping an elderly or sick person to tend their gardens or even plant a tree shows goodwill and selflessness.
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      Tips

      • The world gets changed a step at a time. People, after they have been affected by the courtesy of strangers, will begin to do the same for others. Eventually politeness will become more common in the world.
      • Be nice always even with those that are not really nice with you, it will help a lot. First try to help them with their problems.
      • Smile often. It improves your appearance and you will feel good.
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      Warnings

      • Being kind does not mean being a doormat. Don't let people take advantage of you.
      • Men: Be careful, because it is possible that women will mistake kindness for creepiness or think you are hitting on them, even if you are doing nothing of the sort.
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      References

      1. Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.
      2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10376957/
      3. Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.
      4. Tami Claytor. Etiquette Coach. Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.

      About This Article

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Mokwena Modipadi

        Aug 7, 2017

        "It showed me how simple it is to be courteous and that it can change lives, one act of kindness at a time!"
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