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Kindness is the quality of being friendly, having a concern for others, being helpful and/or generous, and the wanting to do something nice for someone . . . just because we can.
Why it’s important:
- In order to be kind, we have to pay attention to what is happening around us. Then, we can see what there is to do. Doing something for someone else makes us feel good. Just as exercising releases endorphins, so does kindness.
- Kindness comes from the heart. The more good things we do, we find that we are more altruistic, trusting, communicative, and believe in equality. Being kind reduces prejudice and bullying.
- The more people who experience kindness from us, the more happy people will be in our lives. When those around us are happier, our world becomes a brighter, lighter place to live.
- By recognizing someone's need for help and acting on it in a compassionate manner, it makes the recipient feel valued, respected, and less alone. It also makes the giver feel better about themselves and more connected.
- One of the most common responses to kindness is gratitude. People appreciate what we've done for them and want to be around you.
In the workplace:
- Being too rushed to not acknowledge co-workers with a simple “hello” or “good morning” prompts others to think you are aloof, uncaring, and not a team player.
- Offer to take on some work when we notice that another person is overwhelmed or has too much on their plate.
- Acknowledge birthdays, special events in people’s lives, or team accomplishments.
Stop criticism, gossip, and blame. There are no justifiable benefits to these forms of communication. - Lead by example. Kindness brings more kindness, because the impact of your action inspires others to be kinder.
Here are some ways to practice kindness:
- Practice "Random Acts of Kindness" everyday. This can be paying for someone's coffee, reaching out to someone who's down, helping out a co-worker with duties, paying someone a compliment, etc.
- Put a sticky note on someone's workstation or papers with words of encouragement, telling them how great they are, or acknowledging their own kindness.
- Make a special time in huddles or staff meetings to call out co-workers who did a truly thoughtful, above-and-beyond, or helpful act
- Don't forget to include our members, as they could probably use a little more kindness in their day.
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Thanks for sharing.