Do you know what kindness is? You can use the word “kindness” without thinking, but its impact is massive.
If you wish to spread kindness to everyone, it’s good first to have a sense of it. Keep reading and get yourself familiar with what kindness is, its importance, and you can be more kind.
Happy reading!
What is Kindness?
Kindness is giving yourself oneself freely and an act of helping others with pure reason and without strings attached or expectation of reciprocity.
It is also defined as the quality of being considerate, generous, and friendly.
Why Is It Important?
Practicing kindness towards yourself or other people makes you experience positive physical and mental changes.
It happens by lowering the stress levels while increasing your body’s feel-good hormones production, including serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine.
Being kind also helps reduce stress and anxiety, reduce high blood pressies, and boost the immune system.
One of the great things about kindness is that it is not difficult to show it or become kind.
5 Tips to Become More Kind.
Now that you know what kindness is and the importance of being kind, it’s time to reveal the tips on becoming kinder.
1. Connect with Others.
Even if it is just for a moment, try to connect with others. It can be with your coworker next to your table or with strangers you see on the streets.
For example, if you dine-in in a restaurant, pause for a second and look at the wait staff when they take your order.
Then, smile and thank them for the food and service. That simple act of appreciation and acknowledgment may be the highlight of their day.
2. Learn to Listen.
When a close friend or a family member is not a difficult situation, the kindest thing you can do is listen to them.
It may not ease the pain, but you are giving them a chance to be heard. Sometimes being heard is all they need.
If they ask for your thoughts or opinions, give them to them. However, ensure that your responses are light and diplomatic.
3. Be Aware of Your Effect on Others .
Just like everyone else, you can have bad days. However, you still need to be aware of your power. Beware that simple grumpy response to your coworkers can already run their day instantly.
Even if you are in a bad mood or facing any issue, never put your frustrations on others. If you do, give them your earnest apology.
4. Show Empathy.
Kindness and Empathy go hand-in-hand. So, ensure to put yourself in other people’s shoes.
You may not know that these people are going through a challenging situation, so ensure that you will not pile onto their pain.
5. Know Your Limits .
Kindness should not lead you to martyrdom. You have to learn the best time to say yes or say no.
If you have trouble turning others down, you can use the phrase “I would love to, but….” That way, you still display kindness and gentleness and enabling you to put boundaries in place.
There you have it! Never miss a chance to show kindness to yourself and everyone around you. You can check this podcast for other inspiring ideas.
Read more:
World Kindness Day: 13th of November to spread good things.
Self-Compassion, 5 Tips to get there and be Happy.
