Celebrate World Kindness Day with These Small Acts of Kindness!
By: Jack Beck (CAS ’21, SHA minor) & Jane Hwang (SHA ’21)
Kindness is a universal language, and it’s practiced in the hospitality industry every day. From greeting guests upon their arrival to giving goodbyes at the end of their stay, generosity is part of the operation for anyone in the industry. This year, nations around the world will celebrate “World Kindness Day” on Wednesday, November 13th to remember and practice compassion for those around us. Here are a few tips on how you can “Make Kindness the Norm,” in and out of the classroom.
- All it takes is a few additional seconds in between classes to make someone else’s day. Don’t close the door on the next person. Be kind and hold it for them.
- We all have some sort of amazing teacher, coach, coworker, family, or friend from our past that made us who we are right now. Let them know! Send an email, give a phone call; touch base with someone you haven’t spoken to in a while and show them how they’ve made a difference in your life.
- Avoid standing through an awkward elevator ride. Compliment the person next to you. It’s as simple as saying, “I like your shoes today!”
- After a night of rigorous studying, a cup of coffee may very well be just what a friend needs. Treat yourself and a friend to a cup of coffee before class.
- Road rage is a real problem in the city. Let drivers merge into traffic with a wave and smile, and be extra conscientious if you’re a pedestrian crossing the street.
- “Please” and “thank you” can never be said enough. Incorporate these words a little more into your everyday.
- Be a good T rider! Give your seat to anyone who looks like they need it more than you, take off your backpack and hold it by your side, and be sure not to crowd near the door when you board the train.
And remember, kindness doesn’t have to be limited to one day a year. Every day, be kind, be courteous, and do all you can to make the world a safer and better place.