The holiday season is a time for giving, but sometimes it can be hard to think of ways to give back. If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are ten random acts of kindness for the holidays that will definitely put a smile on someone’s face this season. Now you can get out there and spread some holiday cheer with Christmas acts of kindness!

What is defined as random acts of kindness?

Random acts of kindness are those that come from a kind and selfless desire to help others without expecting anything in return. It’s simply doing something nice for someone else. What can you do to bring a bit of joy to someone else who wouldn’t expect it?

10 Random Acts of Kindness for the Holidays:

1. Pay for the person behind you in line.

This is a great way to brighten someone’s day. Often times people do this at a coffee shop, the perfect fuel for holiday shopping.

2. Make a gift basket for a neighbor or family member.

A gift basket is a nice way to show that you’re thinking of someone during the holidays, and it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. A simple basket filled with some festive treats or a nice candle would be plenty.

3. Donate clothes or toys that you no longer need to a local charity.

There are always people in need, especially during the holidays, so why not declutter your home and give someone else a chance to enjoy your belongings?

4. Offer to help an elderly neighbor or friend.

You can help an elderly neighbor with yard work, shoveling snow, decorating for the holidays, or any other tasks that might be difficult for them to do on their own. A little bit of your time can go a long way, and they’ll certainly appreciate it! 

5. Leave a kind note for someone.

This could be done anonymously or not, it’s up to you! But taking the time to write a heartfelt message letting someone know how much they mean to you or thanking them for something they have done for you is sure to fill them with holiday cheer.

6. Give out holiday cards to those around you.

Another small gesture that can go a long way, handing out holiday cards to friends, coworkers, or even strangers. This will definitely bring some joy during this hectic time of year.

7. Hand out baked goods.

This is a great way to spread holiday cheer and show your appreciation for those in your life. Whether you make them yourself or buy some from a bakery, handing out treats is sure to bring a smile to someone’s face. Bring them to work, give them to your delivery drivers, neighbors…really anyone you interact with throughout the year.

8. Volunteer at a food bank or homeless shelter.

Showing love and giving back to those that are less fortunate is a true act of holiday cheer. Spending some time volunteering at a food bank or homeless shelter will not only bring joy to those in need, but it will also make you feel grateful for all that you have.

9. Give your time to those in need.

There are always people and families struggling during the holidays, whether it be financially or emotionally. Offer to help them out with their holiday shopping, cooking, or even just spending time with them to bring some joy into their lives. It’s the thought that counts and they will surely appreciate your efforts.

10. Reach out to someone you haven’t see or talked to in a while.

As life gets busy, sometimes we don’t realize how long it’s been since you last saw or spoke with a friend, family member, or mentor. This holiday season, send a note to someone that you haven’t connected with in a while if they don’t live nearby. If there’s someone who lives in your town, I encourage you to reach out and meet up for coffee or lunch.

The holiday season is all about giving, so why not spread some cheer by performing acts of kindness? From paying for the person behind you in line to leaving a kind note for someone, there are endless ways to make someone’s day this holiday season. What Christmas acts of kindness do you plan on doing this year?