“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.”~Lau Tzu
Kindness goes a long way.
Yet it can be something “we don’t have time for” or “might make us appear soft.”
We have many reasons for forgetting to be kind, or choosing not to be kind, but I agree with Lau Tzu, kindness opens possibilities.
We may be frustrated with the person on our team who seems to be struggling and who is craving constant reassurance. While constant reassurance isn’t possible and isn’t the best way to manage or inspire someone, a simple kind word – a pointing out of what went right – may instill confidence and motivation.
We may be annoyed by the person with whom we disagree about the work situation or team challenge or whatever the problem may be. But when we open ourselves to their perspective, when we assume good intentions and choose to see what is good in them or their position, we can find a deeper connection and a profound solution that we wouldn’t have found otherwise.
We may be at odds with someone else or too busy or overwhelmed to feel like we have the time or energy to be kind, but when we do, when we offer kindness in our words or actions, we create opportunity and a bond. We create love.
Kindness goes a long, long way. It seems to pretty much always be worthwhile when I go out of my way to be kind. (Note – to others AND myself!)
How have you learned to be kinder? What have you noticed?
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If you enjoyed this post, you can read more like it in our book, The Power of Thoughtful Leadership: 101 Minutes To Being the Leader You Want To Be, available on Amazon.
If you want more kindness in your life – and behaviors, contact Robyn at rmcleod@chatsworthconsulting.com.
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