We Rise by Lifting Others – 5 Simple Ways to Create a Ripple of Kindness this Week

By Kristina Karlsson – Founder of Dream Life

As we step into a brand new week, I’m inviting you to pause, take a deep breath with me, and reflect on a beautiful and powerful truth:

“We rise by lifting others.” – Robert Ingersoll

This quote resonates so deeply with me, and I hope it does with you too. It’s a reminder that the journey to our dream life isn’t one we take alone. Instead of climbing a ladder solo, let’s build a platform together - one act of kindness at a time. Because the more we help others rise, the more we rise too.

In a recent podcast episode, I share five practical and heartfelt ways you can embody this mantra, starting today. These aren’t grand gestures requiring loads of time or money.

They’re simple, real, and accessible to everyone - and they have the power to create a ripple effect of goodness that reaches far beyond you.

Here’s what I covered, plus some personal reflections I hope will inspire you to take action.

1. Celebrate Someone Else’s Win

When was the last time you sent a message just to say, “I’m so proud of you”? Whether it’s a friend who’s been brave, a colleague who nailed a presentation, or a small business owner doing their best - take a moment to acknowledge them.

A kind comment, a share on Instagram, or even a voice note can completely shift someone’s day.

👉 Your Monday mission? Reach out to one person and say: “I see you. You’re doing amazing.”

This tiny act can have a monumental emotional impact - for them, and for you.

2. Be Generous with Your Knowledge

We often underestimate the power of what we already know.

You don’t need to be a guru or an expert. Maybe you’ve figured out a great productivity hack, discovered an inspiring podcast, or read a book that changed your mindset.

Whatever it is, don’t keep it to yourself.

Whether it’s a tip shared in a team meeting or a heartfelt post on Instagram, your insight might be exactly what someone else needs right now.

3. Lift Someone With Your Presence

In a world that’s increasingly distracted, presence is a gift. Simply putting down your phone, making eye contact, and listening with your full heart is one of the most powerful things you can do for someone.

Whether it’s a child, a partner, a friend, or a stranger - your presence tells them, “You matter. I’m here with you.”

We often think we need the perfect words, but sometimes just being fully there is more than enough.

4. Pay It Forward in a Tiny Way

This week, consider performing one small act of kindness each day. It could be as simple as:

• Buying coffee for the person behind you

• Leaving a kind note in a book at the library

• Writing a thank-you card

• Donating something you no longer need

These actions may seem small, but they are filled with meaning.

One of my all-time favourite podcast guests, Kath Kochel, speaks so beautifully about this in her book The Kindness Method.

I highly recommend listening to my episode with her if you haven’t already. She’s amazing.

👉 You can find links to her episode here.

5. Don’t Forget to Lift Yourself, Too

This might surprise you - but you matter too. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and part of lifting others is learning how to nourish yourself first.

So I invite you to ask:

• What would truly nourish me this week?

• Is there something I need to say no to?

• Could I go to bed earlier tonight?

• What would I write in my journal if no one was watching?

Here are two journaling prompts I’d love you to explore this week:

1. Who could I lift up this week, and how?

2. What’s one way I can lift myself up today?

If you do this, tag me on Instagram - I’d love to hear your answers.

Final Thoughts: Start a Ripple

The magic of lifting others is that it doesn’t deplete you - it expands you. It grows your empathy, deepens your joy, and reconnects you to your purpose. The ripple effect is real. And it starts with one small choice.

So here’s your invitation for this Monday: Start the ripple.

Lift one person up. Then another.

And notice how, before you know it, you’re rising too.

Join Us – Dream Life Coaching: August Theme

If you're ready to share your light and wisdom with others, this month’s Dream Life Coaching theme is perfect for you: Share Your Light.

We kick off tonight - and I’d love for you to join us. It’s a space for women just like you, passionate about growth, purpose, and living intentionally. Together we rise.

👉 Join us here

Until next time, keep dreaming big and taking small, meaningful steps.

Remember: progress, not perfection 💛

Founder, Dream Life