The Happiness Ninja
Early one morning in June 2015, I awoke with a fabulous idea: to buy a ninja costume, dress up in it, and conduct random acts of kindness on the streets. I did and continue to still do!
My first RAK was in Townsille, North Queensland, Australia. I handed out free bottles of water to people on top of Castle Hill, a popular and local attraction to hike up. I then moved my cause to the beach front. Not only did I hand out the remaining bottles of water, I also gave out free hugs and secretly paid for someone's coffee at a local shop. Since this first ninja stunt, I have done other similar RAKS in other places including: free macrons with inspirational messages on them at Darling Square, Sydney; free fortune cookies with inspirational messages inside them instead of fortunes at Fortitude Valley, Brisbane; free hugs on public transport on Brisbane CBD trains; free chocolates at Kangaroo Point, Brisbane; and inspirational cards in people's letter boxes in the northern suburbs of Brisbane.
I have found the variety of reactions quite interesting. Some people are rather rude and either ignore me or reject my product, but that is okay as what I am doing is triggering something uncomfortable inside them. I do not personalise this or take offense in any way. Most people absolutely love it and are so friendly and inviting, but there are a few who need a little encouragement to approach me or accept my gifts or hugs. Usually my winning smile is enough though! I absolutely love what I do. I have been in 6 papers and 2 radio stations so far. I will continue to do a variety of RAKs with whatever I can get my hands on. To minimise the cost for me, I encourage businesses to either sponsor me or provide their products for me to give away as a joint promotion. I am currently looking for sponsorship for a new custom-made ninja suit in more breathable material. The sponsor can display their business logo and website on my costume.