Today marks the official start to Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) Week, a celebration that occurs the second full week of February each year. Being kind to other people should be a goal we strive for every day, and RAK Week provides us a special opportunity to focus on random acts of kindness. See the list below for some suggestions on how you can participate in RAK Week.

R: Recognize when someone is having a bad day and find out what you can do to help.
A: Ask a friend or coworker a thoughtful question, then listen (really listen!) to the response.
N: Nix gossip when you hear it.
D: Drop off a delicious snack for someone you care about.
O: Offer to help with a task a family member doesn’t enjoy.
M: Make time to introduce yourself to someone you’ve never met.

A: Acknowledge another person’s talent.
C: Compliment someone on a job well done.
T: Take time to feed an expired parking meter or give a lost stranger directions.
S: Stop to pick up a piece of trash.

O: Open the door for someone behind you.
F: Foot the bill for someone behind you in the drive-thru. 

K: Keep a bank of inspiring quotes and send one via email to brighten someone’s day.
I: Invite a friend or family member to join you for a walk or run at a local park or trail.
N: Notice someone’s effort on a project or task and take the time to show your appreciation.
D: Donate to your favorite charity or shelter.
N: Nab the bill when eating out and buy someone’s meal or snack.
E: Eat lunch with a friend.
S: Set up a quick coffee break with a friend and pick up the tab.
S: Surprise someone with a tray of cookies or fruit.