PINKSOCKS: How a Pair of Socks Became a Symbol of Love and Connection tells the inspiring true story of how a small gesture – gifting a pair of bright pinksocks with black handlebar mustaches – sparked a global movement rooted in kindness, empathy, and human connection.
What began as a simple colorful act of gifting, quickly grew into something far greater: a worldwide community of people choosing to show up with love, to see and be seen, and to spread hope in an often disconnected world. From hospital corridors to classrooms, from conference stages to street corners, pinksocks have become a shared language of compassion – an outward symbol of our common humanity.
Through heartfelt stories, reflections, and the voices of those touched by the movement, this book explores how connection begins with the courage to be kind. It reveals how small acts, multiplied by millions, can change the tone of companies, communities, and even the world.
More than a chronicle of a movement, PINKSOCKS is a reminder that love is contagious, that kindness has no borders, and that every one of us has the power to make a difference.
This is not just the story of socks, it’s the story of people. It’s about what happens when technology meets humanity, when strangers become friends, and when a symbol of hope reminds us that we’re all walking this path together.
At its heart, PINKSOCKS is a call to connection. A reminder that the simplest things – a smile, a gift, a pair of pinksocks – can change the world, one act of kindness at a time.
PINKSOCKS is a beautiful reminder that even the smallest gestures can create extraordinary ripples of kindness. What began as a simple act of gifting socks has grown into a movement that warms both feet and hearts all across the world. The stories shared in this book are uplifting, hopeful, and a testament to the power of generosity to bring people together.
I’m so delighted that he has finally written this book. His vision and dedication shine through every page, and I couldn’t be happier to see his inspiring work shared with the world.
Dr. Jonathan Reichental, Founder of Human Future, Professor, and Author
PINKSOCKS is a fascinating read on the origins and evolution of the Pinksocks tribe by the founder himself – Nick Adkins. In the act of gifting – the color of the socks was never the point. The point is always the story it starts and the connection that’s shared. Ultimately, the true art of gifting is creating something that others wants to belong to – not just receive. Reading this first-hand account is itself a gift that’s easy to say ‘yes’ to!
Dan Munro, Forbes Contributor and Author of Casino Healthcare
I think PINKSOCKS should come with a warning that you might need tissues at the ready. I loved the stories and people you met, saw, and connected to. In my work, I can discern authentic patient engagement in healthcare practice and research. PINKSOCKS shows authentic engagement with real people – not who they are on a screen, but their true selves, guards down, with hearts open. I love the message to choose connecting, listening, and gifting one’s attention and empathy and receiving it back.
Susan H. Lin, ScD, OT/L, FAOTA, FACRM, Health Scientist, Clinician, Educator, and Patient Advocate
PINKSOCKS is a vibrant and heartfelt exploration of humanity’s shared need for connection and kindness. Through deeply personal stories and inspiring examples, it will take you on a journey to see how a simple gesture can ignite a global movement of love. This book is a reminder that in a world focused on division, the core of our existence is about seeing, hearing, and truly connecting with one another. It’s an essential read for anyone looking to be reminded of the profound good that exists when we choose to show up with empathy and an open heart.
Gabe Charbonneau, M.D., Founder of the #FightBurnout Movement, and Co-founder of MedicineForward.org
PINKSOCKS is our reminder that kindness has to be the central aspect of managing this time. Kindness is the instrument that can deflate the hatred and divisiveness. We have a duty to connect to combat the dark place humanity can go when we create distance and objectify others. Slowing down and hearing and being with each other is essential to our survival.
Graham Harriman, Psychotherapist and Co-author of The Healing Power of Community: Mutual Aid, AIDS, and Social Transformation in Psychology
PINKSOCKS: How a Pair of Socks Became a Symbol of Love and Connection was written because the world needs more reminders of our shared humanity…..more connection, kindness, and love. In a time when things can feel divided and overwhelming, this book is about coming back to what truly matters: seeing one another, hearing one another’s heart speak, and choosing kindness in every now.
All proceeds from the book go to Pinksocks Life, Inc., our 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to support its mission of spreading connection, kindness, and love around the world…..the good things that make life beautiful.
We are grateful for you and how you show up in the world each day with love and kindness. Keep doing that! 👊💖✨