Be Kind, Not Weak
What has happened to saying "thank you" when someone holds the door for you? What has happened to respecting others' time by showing up on time, coming prepared, showing up at all? What has happened to being kind, respectful, willing to go the extra step to help others?
In a time of worldwide challenges, political outbursts, uncertainty, it's more important now than ever to stop, take a breath, influence others through kindness. It really is quite simple. The energy that goes into the opposite response of kindness takes more work while the results create a downward spiral of emotions leading to negative outcomes.
Research confirms what influential leaders know: kindness isn't soft—it's strategic. Studies show that companies with prosocial leaders have lower turnover, higher customer satisfaction, greater profitability. Teams that practice kindness possess 26% more energy, are 30% more motivated, and express 36% more job satisfaction.
Life will continue throwing challenges our way. Individuals who are truly influential successfully navigate these ups and downs by being kind. Wouldn't you rather have a reputation that communicates kindness than anger, negativity, lack of respect?
Five Steps to Stay Focused on Being Kind
Stop, take a breath, pay attention to what is REALLY important. Think before you react. Your reactions determine your outcomes. Taking a moment to consider the results of your behavior will help you make the right decision rather than regretting it later.
Take time for yourself. When pressure gets heavy, take a moment to be alone. Go for a walk, sit in a private space, and start breathing. Research shows that just 11 minutes of meditation weekly significantly reduces stress while increasing productivity.
Clean house. Examine the people, things, and places in your life causing stress or anger. These triggers distract you from being kind consistently. Start deleting. We become who we hang out with.
Listen. We've forgotten this powerful act of kindness. You can't better serve others if you're not listening to what's important to them. Immerse yourself 100 percent in the words and behaviors of those you're talking to.
Hit play. When life's challenges spark negative emotions, listen to something that centers you. Music, meditation, whatever reminds you that kindness is always the stronger choice.
Being kind isn't about being weak—it's about being wise enough to know that kindness creates the influence, results, and reputation you actually want.
