The Lasting Power of Small Acts of Kindness

Last weekend, I got a message that stopped me in my tracks. It was from a friend I hadn’t spoken to in years—someone I knew back in college. They sent me a photo of four small index cards, each one hand-colored with an affirmation I had written for them during a rough time.

The note said: “Still relying on these at age 50... Thank you so much, Jen!”

I was floored.

At the time, making those little affirmation cards didn’t feel like anything profound. My roommate and I used to keep similar ones scattered around our dorm—little reminders to help us stay grounded, hopeful, and motivated. I’m sure some people thought it was silly, childish or folksy. But we didn’t care. And looking back, I’m so grateful I didn’t dismiss the instinct to create and share them.

Because what might seem small in the moment—just a few words scribbled on a card—can become something much bigger over time.

The Ripple Effect of Encouragement

That message from my friend reminded me how much we need each other. How the smallest gestures—words of affirmation, a note, a sticker, a text saying “I see you. You’re doing great.”—can carry more weight than we ever realize.

We often assume encouragement needs to be grand or complex. But simple, heartfelt reminders of our worth and resilience can make all the difference.

How Can We Support Each Other in Small but Meaningful Ways?

If a few index cards can still bring comfort decades later, imagine what else we can do to uplift those around us:

• Write a small note of encouragement for a friend, partner, coworker, or even a stranger. A sticky note on their desk, a message slipped into a book, or a handwritten card in the mail. I used to leave notes in the bus station, a park bench, the library that said, “I’m grateful for you. Thank you for being here.”
  

• Create little affirmation stickers or digital notes to send in texts, emails, or even print out to leave in unexpected places.
  

• Normalize giving and receiving affirmation. If you admire something about someone, tell them. We often hold back kind words because we assume people already know their value. But sometimes, they don’t. And even if they do, hearing it still matters.
  

• Start a personal affirmation practice. Just as we can uplift others, we need to remind ourselves of our own strength. Keep a few affirmations nearby—on your mirror, in your journal, in your phone notes—and make it a habit to read them daily.

Photo of front side of affirmation flashcards I made for a friend 30+ years ago. The backs say things like “I am a good person.” and “I have a lot to offer!”

A Simple Reminder: You Matter

The message from my friend filled my cup in a way I wasn’t expecting. It was a reminder that our kindness—no matter how small—doesn’t just disappear. It lingers. It supports. It strengthens.

So, consider this your reminder today:

You are on the right track.

You make a difference.

Every day, in every way, you’re getting stronger and stronger.

I am grateful for you.

And if you’re feeling inspired, maybe pass that reminder along to someone else.

Because sometimes, the smallest words of encouragement can last a lifetime.