We’ve all been there—walking through the store, minding our own business, when suddenly we see someone struggling to juggle a cart, a screaming toddler, and a handful of groceries. Do we walk by and pretend we didn’t see it? Or do we stop and offer a hand? The truth is, serving others doesn’t have to be a grand, orchestrated event. It’s often the smallest, simplest acts of kindness that make the biggest impact. And let’s be honest, our kids are watching us like little hawks, taking notes on how we treat people.
Every single time I have taken bread to someone, I am always shocked at how much they have appreciated it. So simple, yet always so grateful for this act of kindness that just takes a few ingredients and time. Best part about this, here is the easiest recipe for making it!
If you’re looking for easy ways to serve others—without overcomplicating it—here are some practical (and sometimes humorous) ideas to get you started.
1. Help a Neighbor (Because Adulting is Hard)
We all have that one neighbor who leaves their garbage cans at the curb for three days before remembering to bring them in. Maybe it’s time to be the hero of the street and wheel those bad boys back up to their house. The same goes for shoveling a sidewalk, raking some leaves, or helping them carry in groceries. These are the things that take minimal effort but make someone’s day a whole lot easier.
If you have kids, bring them along! They’ll learn that helping others doesn’t have to be a chore—it’s just part of being a good human.
2. Return the Shopping Cart (And Maybe One More)
There’s nothing worse than pulling into a parking space only to find an abandoned shopping cart sitting there like it owns the place. Be the person who returns your cart—and while you’re at it, grab the stray one next to it. Your small act of responsibility might just inspire someone else to do the same. Plus, it keeps your kids from thinking it’s okay to leave a mess for someone else to clean up.
Bonus points: If you have little ones, let them push the cart back with you. It makes them feel important, and you get some extra steps in. Win-win.
3. Compliment a Stranger (Without Being Creepy)
It takes zero effort to say, “Hey, that’s a great jacket!” or “You’re doing a great job with your kids.” Small compliments can completely change someone’s mood—especially for parents who feel like they’re barely keeping it together in the grocery store.
Your kids will see that kindness is free, and they’ll start noticing the good in others, too. And who knows? Maybe you’ll brighten someone’s day in a way you never expected.
4. Hold the Door (Like a Gentleman)
I don’t know when we, as a society, decided that rushing through doors was the way to go, but holding the door for someone is a lost art. It’s such an easy way to show respect for others, and it makes you feel like a decent person.
Better yet, teach your kids to do the same. It’s one of those little things that makes a big impression—especially on those who aren’t expecting it.
5. Donate What You Don’t Need (Because That Closet is Overflowing)
You know those clothes you haven’t worn in five years? The kids’ toys they haven’t touched since last Christmas? Someone else could use them. Instead of letting them sit in a pile of “I’ll get to it later,” take an hour and drop them off at a local shelter or charity.
Better yet, let your kids help you pick things out. It teaches them that giving isn’t just about money—it’s about sharing what we have with others. Check out places like Goodwill or The Salvation Army to find donation centers near you.
6. Pay for Someone’s Coffee (Or Their Fast Food Order)
Random acts of kindness, like paying for the person behind you in the drive-thru, are such an easy way to make someone’s day. It doesn’t have to be a big expense—just a little surprise that reminds people there’s still goodness in the world.
And if your kids are with you? Even better. They’ll see firsthand how fun it is to do something nice for a stranger, no strings attached.
7. Pick Up Trash (Even If It’s Not Yours)
Nobody likes seeing garbage on the ground, but how often do we actually stop to pick it up? If you’re out for a walk, grab a piece of trash and toss it in a nearby bin. It’s such an easy thing to do, and it teaches your kids that caring for the community is everyone’s responsibility.
8. Be Present (Put the Phone Down)
One of the simplest ways to serve others? Just be there. Listen when someone needs to talk, respond when your kids ask a question (instead of half-nodding while scrolling), and engage with the people around you. Sometimes, the best gift we can give is our attention.
The Bottom Line: Serving Others is Simple
Serving doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. It’s about looking for small moments where you can make someone’s day a little easier, a little brighter, or a little more joyful.
And the best part? Your kids are watching and learning. So while they might roll their eyes when you grab that extra shopping cart or help a neighbor, one day, they’ll be the ones doing it, too.
Now go out there and be awesome. And if you see a stranded shopping cart in the wild, you know what to do.
