Thank you for taking part in this Pivotal Pop-Up. Your contribution allows me to create meaningful experiences that connect us despite our differences. My hope for today is that in one way or another, you feel a part of the whole.
In today's world of 'more, more, more' it's easy for us to feel like the little things don't make a big difference...or that the individual impact we can make in our day-to-day lives is too small to be meaningful. This is a lie.
Here are 6 Truths:
Truth #1: Humanity is like a puzzle, we can never be made whole without your piece.
Truth #2: You are a unique piece of this puzzle, one that can not be filled by anyone else. (Comparison can make this hard to believe, I know...but it's true).
Truth #3: Your puzzle piece connects you to someone you haven't met and may never meet. The piece you're holding right now has a partner piece (or two, or three) and that partner piece is with another human, connected by a shared purpose. How cool is that?
Truth #4: We create connection with others through practice. And, we begin to understand ourselves in a deeper way through this practice.
Truth #5: Positive Impact knows no race, no government structure, no socioeconomic status, no age, and no other distinguishing factor outside of love, compassion, and connection.
Truth #6: When we place our focus on starting where we are, we create momentum that builds within us in it's own, unique way.
Below you will find 10 ways you can create a ripple effect of kindness, compassion, and togetherness without spending a dime.
As you decide what feels meaningful to you from this list, know that sometimes the results of your kindnesses will not be acknowledged in the ways you expect.
Please try to not allow this to deter you.
We live in a society where 'me first' has become the norm. Sometimes, people simply aren't expecting to be the receiver of kindness. Sometimes, people do not have the capacity to receive in the moment we give. Someone's immediate response does not dictate the effect of your efforts.
Trusting in that is the key to this practice. Thank you for your time & energy!
1. Hold a Door or Gate: As you check-out different museum exhibits, hold the door open for others as they enter or exit. Bonus points on waiting a few seconds for them to catch up!
2. Offer to Take Photos: Offer to take photos for individuals or groups who are struggling to get a good shot together. It's tough to get a selfie with the California Tower!
3. Offer Sunscreen, Bug Spray, Hand Sanitizer: If you have extra sunscreen, bug spray, or hand sanitizer, kindly offer it to someone who you notice may have forgotten to bring their own.
4. Give Genuine Praise to Park Workers: Acknowledge someone's hard work with genuine praise and recognition. If you enjoy an exhibit at the park or see someone tending to the beautiful scenery, thank them for their efforts (especially in the hot sun!)
5. Share Social Media Love: Share lovely photos on social media to uplift and encourage friends, family, or even strangers to enjoy their local parks. Share your experience being in nature, interacting with history, or how a piece of art moved you.
6. Give Right of Way: When walking or driving, give pedestrians or other vehicles the right of way, even if you technically have it. Maybe you even give them a friendly wave (my midwest friends will know what I mean!)
7. Smile at Strangers: Acknowledge someone's presence with a simple smile or friendly greeting when passing by strangers.
8. Engage with Vendors & Artists: The Park is full of vendors and artists sharing their gifts. If you're intrigued, stop by and let them know you enjoy their work. No purchase necessary!
9. Have a Seat & Converse: See a bench? Have a seat and converse lightly with strangers (if that's your jam!) If not, enjoy the scenery and smile.
10. Offer Directions or Assistance: If you see someone who looks lost or confused, offer to help them find their way or provide assistance.
There are many other ways to incorporate kindness that include financial sacrifice. Things like buying someone a drink, sending handwritten notes on park postcards or paying for someone's parking meter. If you have the means to get creative, please do!
Did you have a surprising outcome, a good conversation, or an 'aha' moment after our interaction? I'd love to hear and with your permission, share on my public instagram page, @kristine.axe. Thank you again for your time and energy. You are appreciated.