There have been many studies completed around the science of generosity, and how acts of altruism can improve our own happiness.

 In the spirit of this, we have put together a few options on the various ways we can be kind to others safely during this strange time. Quite honestly, it’s not hard-hitting journalism but perhaps some welcome words of positivity that we all need right now.

If you’re up for using this content, we’d be extremely grateful if you could mention the plug / credit at the bottom of the piece.

Do something kind for a stranger:

The obvious choice here is donating money to a charity or sponsoring someone to do something in aid of charity. You can of course also donate your time as well though. The NHS volunteer scheme has paused its recruiting for the time being but keep checking on GoodSamApp.org. There’s also DoIt.Life where you can offer lots of means of support from collecting medicines, to simple virtual chats with people who need someone to talk to.

Do something kind for someone you live with:

Most of us are entering week four plus in self isolation now, which could test even the strongest of friendships / relationships.  If you’re feeling brave - ask your roomie / partner  what you do that gets on their nerves and make a promise you will resolve your dishwashing / pants-on-the-floor ways. If you’re looking for something less permanent! make them breakfast in bed or leave a positive sticky note on their laptop screen. Sometimes it really is the little things that count.

Do something kind for a friend or family member from a distance:

Thankfully a lot of us have the option of technology to stay in contact with friends and family. However, if you’re feeling the Zoom fatigue, or want to reach out to someone who maybe doesn’t have access to the internet, send them a letter or card instead. Even if your friend/ family member can get online, we’d strongly recommend writing something they can physically keep. I guarantee, it’s a winner.

Do something kind for a company or industry you love:

There are many industries that are suffering thanks to the present circumstances. There are ways you can safely be kind from afar though, it depends on your preferred company or industry and what you can afford. A few examples might include: buy giftcards or merchandise from restaurants that are offering; take a subscription out on a magazine or newspaper; pay for online gym classes etc. You could contact a company and even ask them how you can help if you’re really keen.

Do something kind for you:

If many of the traditional indoor activities aren’t your bag or you really don’t have the time or space, there are other nice things you can do for yourself that are safe and won’t necessarily cost the earth, in fact this doesn’t have to cost anything in some cases. Some companies such as BuyAGift have been offering completely free online courses. There are free apps such as DuoLingo where you can learn a language for free. Audible are offering 50% off membership for the first three months. Whatever your interest, there is likely to be something to keep your brain stimulated.

Credit:

TopCashback members are able to donate their cashback to charities - we’ve recently put HEROES, the charity that seeks to provide funds and help to front line NHS staff,  at the top of this list. In addition, TopCashback have pledged to match our members donations to HEROES up to the value of £10,000 as a personal token of thanks and appreciation to the NHS and their staff.