When I was shopping at Marshalls recently with my mom, we kept discovering inspiration in all forms, including tops, hoodies, and signage. I did capture a few pictures of these inspirations and I'm certain that I can turn each one into their own encouraging blog post! A hoodie that said, "Kindness Matters," stood out to me, so I purchased it without hesitation. I feel it's a message we all need now more than ever. And it means a lot to me personally because I've lived it and I've been challenged to show kindness, even to the unkind.
“Be kind to unkind people. They need it the most.”
― Ashleigh Brilliant, author and syndicated cartoonist
While I believe, and many of would agree, that kindness is a value that takes precedence, let's be honest and admit it's not always easy to be kind to those who are unkind. When we are faced with people who go out of their way to be unkind, it stuns us and stops us right in our tracks. And we start to feel upset. Then we question, why are they acting this way? And what did we do to deserve this? The challenge here is to have a different perspective, and put ourselves in their shoes. We don't have to like their behavior, and yes, it's easy to want to be upset, but it's not really about us and our hurt feelings. It's about what they're going through and why they're struggling with being kind. We just never know what they might be going through and they most likely don't have the same coping mechanisms, so it's important to show them some empathy. And we are also just as capable of having an off-day and struggling to make the greatest effort when it comes to kindness. With that perspective, I've learned to not take it personally. The best way to turn around those hurt feelings is to send some good vibes back their way. Show them something different. Surprise them. That simple act of kindness could end up changing their life for the better.
Two thirds of adults believe being kind to others has a positive impact on their mental health.
―May 2020 survey results, The Mental Health Foundation
There is actually some amazing science behind kindness. Studies reveal that just one random act of kindness a day can decrease stress, anxiety, and depression tremendously. Kindness ignites the happy hormone, serotonin, which is known for its healing properties. Also, as a bonus, there's a major boost of endorphins and oxytocin, which lowers pain and reduces blood pressure. The greatest thing though that happens from an act of kindness, is it has the potential to create a ripple effect for those who witness it. They too can get the happy feels and it inspires them to be kind too.
So, we can make the joy of kindness contagious! We can help heal the world.
A challenge for all of us: be kind, even when it's difficult. There's too much hate and division in this world because of our differences, rather than just simply being willing to embrace each other for our similarities. We are all human beings, and I'd like to say that most of us want the same things: love, peace, and unity to name a few. Let's take those steps towards kindness, so that together, we can change the world for the better.
Shine on, my friends!
Kommentarer