One thing I’ve learned along the way to becoming proficient at performing random acts of kindness is that it takes practice and creativity. I’ve already shared some ways for you to get started on your own do-gooder practice, but you still may not be convinced. Doing something for others doesn’t have to take much effort at all. It also doesn’t have to cost a dime. Let’s take a look at some ways you can reach out and brighten someone’s day in the easiest way. You can never have too many good examples.

• Smile at a stranger.
• Encourage someone who’s struggling.
• Give a word of praise to someone who’s least expecting it, like your boss.
• Hold the elevator for someone who’s in a rush.
• Read a child a story.
• Listen to someone’s complaint.
• Say a heartfelt thank you.
• Share a friend’s creative work on social media.
• Call someone you haven’t talked to in a long time just to say hello.
• Leave a blog comment when you read a post that truly resonates with you.
• Offer a homeless person your leftovers from a restaurant or bagged lunch.
• Tell a frazzled parent what a good job they’re doing or how well-behaved their child is.
• Give someone a hug if they say it’s okay to do so.
• Offer to return someone’s shopping cart.
• Share a kind word with the customer service representative, either on the phone or in-person.
• Give up your seat to someone standing on the subway or bus.
• Write a short message of thanks or encouragement to a co-worker, your partner or random stranger.
• Say hello to a homeless person.
• Introduce yourself to a new neighbor or co-worker.
• Make introductions between your contacts if you feel they could benefit each other or get along well.
• Let someone merge in front of you when driving in heavy traffic.
• Offer to take on someone’s work task if you have time and they seem swamped.
• Give someone a ride who doesn’t have a car.
• Make amends for past wrongs to someone who was once in your life.
• Agree to an activity you might not enjoy just because someone else will love it.
• Invite someone to your holiday celebration if you know they’ll be alone.
• Share your expert knowledge with someone who has questions and has asked for advice.
• Write a recommendation on LinkedIn.
• Offer to pick up items for others when you’re heading out to grab lunch or run an errand.
• Recognize someone for their good idea or contribution during a work meeting.

Okay, now are you ready to get out there and start sharing random acts of kindness? All of these are super-easy, low-effort and free ways to brighten someone’s day. You can do it!