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U Mich | Culture

How Small Acts of Kindness Can Redefine Your Holiday Season

Sydney Padgett Student Contributor, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mich chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

The holiday season is often pictured as twinkling lights, crowded malls and grand gestures. But what if the true magic of this time of year did not come from the biggest celebrations or most expensive gifts? Sometimes the smallest actions, a kind word or a thoughtful gesture can shift the way we experience the season. In the midst of the chaos, these moments of connection remind us what the holidays are really be about.

Why Small Acts Matter

Kindness isn’t just a nice idea. Even small things can make a big difference, like giving someone a genuine compliment or helping a neighbor carry a heavy load. It doesn’t just make them feel good, it can actually lift your own mood, too. December can get overwhelming, but these little moments of connection are exactly what the season needs.

Simple Ways to Spread Kindness

Here are a few ways to make a difference this December:

  • Donate what you can: Clothes, books, or even spare change can go a long way to help those in need.
  • Volunteer: Food banks, shelters, and community centers always need extra hands during the holidays.
  • Send a thoughtful note or message: A quick text or handwritten card to a friend, family member, or mentor can make someone feel remembered.
  • Random acts in public: Pay for the person behind you in line, compliment a stranger, or hold the door for someone
  • Offer your skills or time: Help someone with tutoring, grocery shopping, or tech support. It’s often more valuable than anything money can buy.

Beyond the Holidays

Kindness isn’t limited to December. Doing small things regularly can lift your mood. They can make your relationships stronger and even spread positivity through your campus, workplace or community. Starting with just one simple act can inspire more, and before you know it, you’ve created a culture of generosity that lasts year-round.

Make This Season Meaningful

This year, skip the stress of perfection and focus on connection. The next time you feel caught up in the holiday chaos, remember: sometimes the smallest gesture leaves the biggest mark. Hold the door. Send the note. Buy the coffee. These little actions may seem minor, but they have the power to transform your holiday season and maybe even change someone’s life.

I'm a Junior at the University of Michigan, majoring in Communications and Media with a minor In Political Science. I love working with people and exploring how media shapes culture, both in digital spaces and across different parts of the world. Storytelling has always been a passion of mine, and I enjoy finding new ways to connect with others through media.

Outside of classes, I'm involved in the Pearl Project and K-Grams, where I help support literacy initiatives and childcare programs. I love spending time with my friends, watching countless movies, and being outside as much as possible.