National Random Acts Of Kindness Day

Young child handing a flower to an elderly person, both wearing warm winter clothing, snowy park scene..
National random acts of kindness day illustration

Get ready to scatter some joy, folks! We're about to delve into the delightful (and surprisingly popular) world of National Random Acts of Kindness Day. With 11928 online mentions, this day has proven to grab the internet's heart in a big way, most notably on February 17, 2017. Buckle up, sandwich a grin between your cheeks, as we journey into a land where the currency is kindness and everyone's a millionaire.

When is Random Acts Of Kindness Day?

It's national random acts of kindness day on the 17th February.


What is National Random Acts of Kindness Day?

It's just as sweet and simple as it sounds! On this day, every little small and large gesture of goodwill toward others gets officially recognised as a Random Act of Kindness (RAK). Whether you're helping a friend move, or simply offering a stranger your seat on the bus, every act of kindness gets its moment in the spotlight.

A peak into history

Interestingly, the origins of National Random Acts of Kindness Day are as charmingly fuzzy as the feelings it inspires. The concept of RAK is believed to have been popularised by author Anne Herbert who scribbled 'Practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty' on a placemat in Sausalito, California, in the 1980s. From there blossomed a global movement, celebrated every year with friendly murmurs on the Internet and hearts full of generosity.

Making kindness contagious

On National Random Acts of Kindness Day, the goal is simply to make someone's day a bit brighter. Pay for a stranger's coffee, send a 'just because' text to an old friend, or whip up some homemade cookies for your local community centre. Every action sparks a domino effect, causing your kindness to spread far and wide. It’s these everyday heroes that have likely contributed to the Internet buzz, culminating in a peak of interest on February 17, 2017. So, let’s gear up and spread this kindness virus further!

Why Kindness Matters

Kindness is more than just a feel-good movement. It's a powerful force for mental health, community cohesion and overall wellbeing. Now more than ever, it's upon us all to become ambassadors of kindness. Let’s keep those mentions climbing, and our hearts brimming, and remember - the most random acts often create the most poignant memories!



History behind the term 'Random Acts Of Kindness'


1982

The Birth of 'Random Acts of Kindness'

The term 'random acts of kindness' was born in 1982 when writer Anne Herbert wrote "Practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty" on a placemat at a Sausalito, California restaurant. This became a popular phrase and was later shortened to 'random acts of kindness'. Herbert's simple phrase sparked a movement that would inspire people worldwide to perform small acts of kindness out of the goodness of their hearts.


1993

The Book that Spread the Message

In 1993, the book 'Random Acts of Kindness' by Conari Press was published. The book compiled numerous stories and examples of acts of kindness from people across the globe. It gained immense popularity, effectively spreading the message and inspiring countless individuals to embrace the concept of performing random acts of kindness.


2000

National Random Acts of Kindness Week

In the year 2000, Random Acts of Kindness Week was established. This annual event takes place during the second week of February, encouraging individuals to actively participate in acts of kindness and promote positivity in their communities. It serves as a reminder to slow down, be compassionate, and make a difference in the lives of others.



2004

Social Media and the Spread of Kindness

With the rise of social media platforms, the concept of random acts of kindness gained even more momentum. People started sharing their experiences of performing or receiving acts of kindness, inspiring others to follow suit. Hashtags like #RandomActsofKindness began trending, leading to a global online movement dedicated to spreading kindness and positivity.


2020

Random Acts of Kindness Day

To further promote the value of kindness, Random Acts of Kindness Day was established. Celebrated on February 17th, this day encourages individuals to intentionally perform acts of kindness towards friends, family, coworkers, and strangers. It serves as a reminder that a small act of kindness can have a significant and lasting impact on someone's day.


Did you know?

Did you know the phrase 'random acts of kindness' is believed to have been coined in 1982 by Anne Herbert, who wrote it on a placemat in a cafe?

Tagged

awareness fun rememberance community history kindness mental health goodwill positive vibes

First identified

13th November 2015

Most mentioned on

17th February 2017

Total mentions

11928

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