Kindness. It’s a word we hear all the time, but what does it really mean?
At its core, kindness is about choosing to do something positive, whether for ourselves or someone else, simply because we want to make a difference.
It’s not about big gestures, but about intention, connection, and the small decisions we make every day to make life a little better for ourselves, the people around us, and for the planet.
Listening when a friend is having a rough day. Noticing someone’s arms are full and offering a hand. Sharing something you no longer need with a neighbour, even a stranger. These moments might feel ordinary, but they build something real: connection, trust, and a sense of belonging.
Why kindness makes us feel good
There’s real science behind that warm feeling you get after doing something nice for someone else. Research shows that helping others promotes changes in the brain linked to happiness – it literally makes us feel better.
Kindness is also a natural antidote to loneliness and isolation. It helps us forge a sense of belonging, relieve stress, build new friendships, and boost self-esteem. When we help someone going through a difficult time, we often gain a new perspective on our own situation – and find ourselves feeling more positive as a result.
That sense of purpose matters too. Giving time, whether through volunteering or simply sharing what we no longer need, can deepen how meaningful our lives feel. Overall, acts of kindness have been shown to improve our feelings of confidence, happiness, and optimism.
Kindness is contagious
Kindness doesn’t only affect individuals – it strengthens entire communities. It deepens solidarity, builds trust and reminds us that we’re part of something larger than ourselves.
Research shows that when someone experiences an act of kindness, they’re more likely to pass it on – contributing to something more positive and connected around them. Acts of kindness build trust, deepen solidarity, and remind us that we’re part of something larger than ourselves.
One small action really can ripple outwards.
What this looks like on Olio
Every day, we see this across the Olio community. Someone lists an item they no longer need. A neighbour collects them. A quick thank-you message. A familiar face at the door.
These moments feel small. But they make people feel good.
“Some weeks, my mental health and breathing issues keep me stuck at home, and it can feel really isolating. Finding Olio has made such a difference. Being able to give, share, and connect here makes me feel useful and part of something bigger. It really lifts my spirits.” Robert from London
That’s exactly why we’ve partnered with the Mental Health Foundation this May: to raise vital funds for mental health support by doing what our community already does every day.
Everyday acts of kindness (that cost nothing)
The Mental Health Foundation recommends starting small, so we don’t give more than we can manage. Here are a few ways to practise a little more kindness this week:
☑️ Smile or say hello to a neighbour you pass on the street
☑️ Check in on someone who might need a hand
☑️ Call a friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with
☑️ Share something you no longer need with someone nearby through Olio
Together, these small actions can make a real difference – to someone else’s day, and your own.
Declutter for Good
Until 31st May, every non-food listing you add on Olio can help raise money for the Mental Health Foundation.
When you add a non-food item, you’ll see a donation tick box on your listing page. If you’re on app version 2.19 or above, it’s switched on by default – simply toggle it off if you’d prefer not to take part. If you’re on an older version, you’ll need to toggle it on to opt in.
Once your item is marked as pick-up arranged, you and your collector will both receive an automated message inviting you to donate to the Foundation directly. Any amount is welcome.
Or if you’d like to support the Mental Health Foundation without decluttering, you can donate directly below.
Learn more about our partnership here.