Last Updated on September 16, 2022
When did kindness become revolutionary? And, is it still possible to be kind? We’ve all heard that people should be kind to other people, but when did it become such a revolutionary idea? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, you may have already realized that being kind isn’t enough. Here are some ways to improve your own kindness:
Is it possible to be kind without being kind?
Being kind isn’t about being a doormat or letting others walk all over you. Kindness is about being honest and authentic. It’s the opposite of codependent thought habits, which make us put other people before ourselves. If we’re genuinely kind, we’re more likely to be successful in life. This means being generous, compassionate, and truthful to ourselves and others.
A study by the Journal of Personality surveyed over 2,700 college students about what characteristics they look for in a life partner. Physical attractiveness topped the list, followed by financial prospects, chastity, and humor. After kindness, however, came the most important thing: creativity. When employees felt that their company valued their ideas, they were more willing to contribute them to the organization. The findings are fascinating and may give some people a reason to reconsider their own behavior.
Being nice is a common trait in society, but being kind requires a more serious commitment. For instance, when a close friend makes a homophobic comment, you may be surprised to learn that it’s a personal attack, but he or she hasn’t even realized how offensive it is. In such situations, it’s important to look beyond the surface level and see the person’s perspective.
Being nice is a choice that you make moment by moment. It’s a pleasant thing to do, and it’s a good way to treat others. But being kind requires an ongoing commitment to being real. If you’re used to pleasing others, or have a tendency to value perfection, this can be a challenge. That’s why it’s crucial to develop a strong core of loving-kindness and commit to practicing it.
Being nice is a deceptive quality. Some people are just being nice to get something. But being kind is an entirely different animal. Kindness is in a person’s nature and involves selflessness. This selflessness is the difference between being nice and being kind. Be nice, but don’t be too nice. Be kind, and you’ll have a more rewarding life. When you’re kind to people, it’s in your nature.
About The Author
Alison Sowle is the typical tv guru. With a social media evangelist background, she knows how to get her message out there. However, she's also an introvert at heart and loves nothing more than writing for hours on end. She's a passionate creator who takes great joy in learning about new cultures - especially when it comes to beer!