Posted: by Sinade Tuesday, 24 January 2023 @ 15:04
Kindness is one of the most important characteristics there is.
All of us thrive on the kindness of others; when life presents us with its most difficult moments, we often depend on the goodwill and compassion of our loved ones to help us push on. It is not easy to practice kindness all the time. During life's stressful periods, all of us have a tendency to forget to reach out to others. Here are six ways you can remember to be kinder every day...
1. Smile
Smiling at others is probably the simplest, easiest act of
kindness there is. A warm smile goes a long way, especially when meeting new
people; it will put them at ease and let them know that you are friendly and
approachable.
2. Avoid judgement
In a world that is increasingly focused on attaining
perfection, it is all too easy to be heavily critical of ourselves and others.
When the temptation to criticise arises, try to exercise a little empathy
instead. It is easier to be kind when we bear in mind that others have their
own priorities and problems that are just as real as ours. As Plato suggests,
we should be kind, for everyone we meet is fighting a hard battle.
3. Show compassion
It is imperative to really listen to other people. Most
of us are guilty of being a tad too individualistic or wrapped up in our own
problems to pay attention to others all the time. When someone tells you about their day, don’t
respond by immediately telling them about yours; ask them questions and show
that you’re interested. Call a friend just because, and try to reach out to
those in need.
4. Keep an open mind and open heart
It is so often true that you gain from an experience what
you put into it. It is all too easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of negative
thinking, particularly when we are feeling anxious and uncomfortable, and this
can get in the way of expressing kindness. It is important to try to respond to
new situations with openness; make positive observations and express them.
5. Respect boundaries
It is crucial to respect personal boundaries, as this is
how we let other people know what we need. Don’t push others, but equally don’t
be a people pleaser. A common trap is to conflate kindness with always giving
others what they want, but it is just as important to be kind to yourself and
to honour your own needs.
6. Be polite
As the old saying goes, “good manners cost nothing but
are worth much.” Whether it’s holding the door for someone, or waving a
pedestrian across the road when driving, a little politeness can help to
brighten someone else’s day. Gratitude is also integral to kindness, and
remembering to say “please” and “thank you” is the simplest to let others know
you appreciate their kindness.
