Seeing that a Random Act of Kindness Day was yesterday (sorry we missed it!), it still seems fitting to talk about kindness. I feel like the older we get, the more we’re told to toughen up and worry about ourselves. This creates the misconception that kindness makes you weak. So why do we even entertain that idea? We all like people who are kind and we like being around them, so it becomes pretty obvious that being kind is actually a strength.
Be Kind
- It actually helps YOU out. Being kind can ease your anxiety and reduce stress. It does this by making you step outside of yourself. When you step outside of yourself, you’re able to take a break from whatever is overwhelming you. It also helps you build relationships with others.
- Your actions are a reflection of you. Like I mentioned earlier, everyone likes being around people who are kind. You can probably think back and remember someone who is nothing but kind, and it puts a smile on your face. You can also probably think back and remember someone who was not so kind. Odds are, you can remember something mean they said or did to you. You don’t want to be that person in the mind of others.
- It comes naturally even though it seems like a choice. I guess the best way to explain this is to think of someone from your childhood. For me, that’s my little brother. Even though we had our fights, I never wanted to see him upset or struggling. He was the same with me. Humans are naturally kind, it’s part of our nature. So don’t fall victim to the misconception, and let yourself be kind!
- It’s contagious! Being kind is just as contagious as smiling. It creates a better environment for everyone. No one wants to be in a space that is constantly negative. We all want to feel welcome and comfortable, so be the one to create that kind of space.
Written by GUADS staff member Toni with contributions from www.psychologytoday.com
Episode 19: Health Coaching Series Part 2