Be a RAKtivist

When life stresses start to take their toll it can cause those unfortunate down days. We've all been there.

But when we're feeling a bit off, all it takes is one Random Act of Kindness from somebody to help perk us back up again. 

So be that somebody, be a RAKtivist. A daily doer, reaching out to others when they need it.

Here are a few kind things you can do to turn someone's frown upside down... it'll make you feel good too!

See how many you can do!

• Chivalry isn't dead
  Prove it by holding the door open for someone or offering to carry a bag for them.
  
  
  
• Give a random compliment
  Everyone loves a bit of praise but sometimes random direct compliments can be awkward. Why not add one in whilst thanking someone? If someone makes you a sandwich, instead of saying, “Thanks, this bread is amazing” why not say “Thanks. You make the best sandwiches, they taste amazing” Smooth!
  
  
  
• Be funny
  Tell someone a funny story or joke. Being self-deprecating is usually a winner as it shows you don’t take yourself too seriously and people bond well over humour. Stick to safe jokes if you don’t know the person too well though - you don’t want to offend anyone!

• Eat humble pie
  Be polite and take an interest in others. It does all of us good to take a back seat and eat humble pie once in a while, letting others take centre stage. Plus putting someone else first and having good manners will make you feel good about yourself too.
• Do a chore for someone
  Why not take the bin out in your flat or do the washing up? Do it without being asked and be gracious about it. Don’t spend the next hour telling everyone how good you are because you did the chore!   
• Reminisce
  Send a friend a funny/embarrassing/cute throwback picture or video of the two of you. If they don’t smile at the sentiment then they're guaranteed to be laughing at the dodgy outfits and silly facial expressions.
  
• Bake
  Whip up some goodies and give them to your friends or flatmates. Lots of cookies = lots of smiles!
• Be sociable
  Smile, wave or say ‘hi’ to someone you don’t know. Chances are they will smile back and if they don’t then at least it got you smiling!
  

• Stick the kettle on
  Make all your flatmates a brew, because a cup of tea makes everything better...
• Tell someone you love them
  Even if it’s only your dog. Dogs can smile too you know!
  

You don't have to wait for somebody to have a down day to do these things either. Make their day even better - and make yourself feel amazing in the process! 
#Raktivist



Remember you can always speak to your Wellbeing Peer if you are feeling down. Get in contact by emailing here4u@arts.ac.uk (please reference your hall in the subject line). 

Please be reassured that everything you discuss will be dealt with confidentially and sensitively.