Kindness Week came into being when several humanitarian groups came together on November 13, 1997, and made a Declaration of Kindness. What started as Kindness Day turned into Kindness Week, where everyone is encouraged to make a similar declaration of kindness and charity. The week is celebrated by donating books, food, or clothes to local communities and pledging to empathize with other people. Even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way, and you should never pass up an opportunity to help someone in need. Kindness Week aims to create a society where everyone can live a dignified life.
History of Kindness Week
Kindness Week first began as a week of observation by the World Kindness Movement. A group of associations and institutions based in countries like Thailand, England, Australia, and America came together because of their combined dedication to promoting kindness in society. The initial days of the World Kindness Movement started from this event. They created the written declaration of their inception, which stated that the movement pledges to build a kinder and more compassionate world. It was only natural that they would help launch the inaugural World Kindness Week in 1997.
We observe World Kindness Week to highlight good deeds in our communities. Acts of kindness and goodwill are common threads that bind us. This week has become globally recognized and is now widely celebrated everywhere. Participants from across the world come together to perform acts of kindness. The sole purpose of this week is to focus on the positivity that surrounds us every day. It’s a week to learn, teach, and share our kindness with others.
The root of the word ‘kindness’ originates from the Old English word ‘kyndnes,’ which is a derivative from the Middle English word ‘kindenes,’ a word for courtesy. This week of kindness is observed with activities like dance mobs, concerts, and random acts of kindness for those around us. At the moment, World Kindness Week is an unofficial celebration; however, enthusiasts hope that the World Kindness Movement will soon achieve official recognition status by the United Nations.
Kindness Week timeline
The American Red Cross’ first major peacetime relief effort.
Following the earthquake, a soup kitchen is set up that feeds almost 300 people every day.
Volunteers turn up with more than 400 boats to rescue those stranded.
Humanitarian organizations work around the clock to reach those affected by the hurricane.
Kindness Week FAQs
Why is kindness important?
Kindness allows us to connect with other people and build meaningful relationships. When someone shows us kindness, we feel connected and more willing to cooperate with them.
How can I be kind?
You can be kind in the following ways:
- Tell someone when you think positively of them
- Speak respectfully to others
- Set a good example
- Volunteer your time and talents, and
- Listen more.
Why is kindness so powerful?
Witnessing acts of kindness produces oxytocin, occasionally referred to as the love hormone, which aids in lowering blood pressure and improving our overall heart health. Oxytocin also increases our self-esteem and optimism, which is extra helpful when we’re anxious or shy in a social situation.
How To Celebrate Kindness Week
Give compliments
Give a compliment to your friends and even strangers during Kindness Week. Compliment their new haircut, outfit, or anything you like about them.
Do a random act of kindness
Smile at strangers passing by, hold open a door, or give up your seat on public transport. Even these small gestures are a nice way of showing kindness to others.
Donate
Donate books, clothes, food, essential medicines, and even money to a charity of your choice.
5 Facts About Kindness That Will Blow Your Mind
Kindness is teachable
We are psychologically wired to help someone in need.
It’s contagious
Witnessing an act of kindness improves our mood, making us more likely to pay it forward.
Kindness makes you live longer
There’s 44% less chance of dying early if you are kind.
Serotonin source
Like most medical antidepressants, kindness stimulates the production of serotonin.
Kindness has anti-aging effects
Perpetually kind people have 23% less stress hormone and age slower than the average population.
Why We Love Kindness Week
Teaches us to be kind
We get caught up in our lives and forget to take a moment to think about others in need. Doing something good for others can be good for us too.
Reminds us that we are not alone
Kindness Week reminds us that we aren’t alone and that others are kind and care for us. The week also highlights the goodness that takes place every day.
Time to get creative
Kindness Week is the time to get creative with your ideas. Find unique ways to show kindness and express empathy.
Kindness Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 7 | Monday |
| 2023 | November 13 | Monday |
| 2024 | November 11 | Monday |
| 2025 | November 10 | Monday |
| 2026 | November 9 | Monday |
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