The Power of Small Acts
Care that ripples through our world.
Posted on Wed 12 Mar 2025 · by Jennifer Dale
There are thousands of courageous women around the world making inspiring breakthroughs. What my heart is drawn to right now is the millions of small, but potent, ways that EACH of us is caring for ourselves, and others.
The world can feel heavy these days. The constant stream of news, the weight of responsibilities, the uncertainty of the future—it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. But in times of struggle, we have always found a way to show up. We tend to our families, our communities, our friends, and often, we forget ourselves in the process.
But small, intentional acts of care expand.
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
It’s tempting to believe that only grand gestures create real change, but history and experience tell us otherwise. Mother Teresa once said, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." These small things—a kind word, a listening ear, a thoughtful gesture—can shift the energy around us and inspire others to do the same.
Imagine the ripple effect. One woman makes time to check in on a friend who’s struggling. That friend, feeling supported, extends patience and kindness to her family. Her children witness love in action and carry it into their own interactions. A single act has now set off a wave of compassion.
Self-Care nurtures resilience
We are caregivers, yet we rarely extend that same care to ourselves. We push through exhaustion, silence our needs, and prioritize everything but our own well-being.
When we take the time to nourish ourselves—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—we are not just recharging; we are reclaiming our power. We find clarity, set boundaries with confidence, and show up for others from a place of strength and genuine joy, rather than depletion.
Everyday ways to make a difference
Start with yourself. Begin your day in quiet stillness. Listen to what Love brings to you. Walk in nature, and stop to notice the simple beauty of life all around you. Always end your day with gratitude, a time to recognize and celebrate the good that IS all around you. Tiny habits of self-care build resilience.
Extend grace to others. Compliment a stranger. Tune into another’s intentions in a moment when they hurt you and choose forgiveness. Try letting someone merge in traffic without frustration! :-)
Listen deeply. In a world full of noise, truly listening is an act of love. Put down your phone. Be present. Make space for someone else’s voice, and follow up on something specific they shared so that they know you truly heard them.
Offer support, no matter how small. Listen to a friend in a moment of fear or uncertainty. Help them know they’re never alone. Babysit for a tired mom. Buy from a woman-owned business to support its growth. Small things add up.
Set boundaries without guilt. Protect your time and energy, which allows you to give from a place of fullness and genuine joy, rather than resentment or responsibility.
A world transformed, one act at a time
Small actions, done consistently, create change. As Maya Angelou so wisely said — and I know I quote it regularly — “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
In a world that desperately needs healing, women have the power to lead through love—one small act at a time.
THIS is how I’m celebrating International Women’s Month — recognizing the small acts of care and kindness when we choose grace. Its effect is more powerful than we realize!
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