5 ways to inspire others to be kind - Jo Cutler, Doctoral Tutor (Psychology), University of Sussex

2019 marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in a rich history of nonviolent activists achieving fundamental change. Figures such as Gandhi, Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela are often remembered for their own personal sacrifices and kindness but one of the most important attributes of any activist is inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Kind acts can take many forms such as helping a friend or colleague with a problem, taking time to send nice feedback or a compliment, volunteering, donating do a charity and taking political actions to benefit others. By encouraging others to also take these actions, we can maximise the benefits. Science has revealed a lot about people in the last 150 years and we now have more insight into how to inspire others to be kind.