We’re living in an age where it feels like everyone’s edges are showing.
Opinions feel so sharp, mouths are too quick and rigidity seems to be the only way to hold your ground.
It’s very black or white,
good or bad,
right or wrong,
us vs them.
The roots of that are a way bigger discussion and far deeper issue than a single post can approach, but something we can all be a little more of, try a bit harder at and give some extra intention to is this:
Being kind.
Kindness feels gentle and light, not strong enough to soften a decibel of the screaming we’re constantly living in, but I want to challenge that idea.
We need to challenge that idea.
Kindness isn’t being a doormat or giving someone the upper hand. It isn’t passive or compliant or easy, even. Kindness requires curiosity about differing opinions. It takes respect in our discussions and discourse. It asks us to listen, not to convert or convince as our conversational goal.
It isn’t weak, but one of the boldest and strongest qualities we can each embody. Kindness allows others to be themselves and hold their own opinions around us without needing to get defensive. It gives us common ground when we don’t agree and a standard of care when we debate.
So, can you make this your intention this week?
At work.
At home.
In your meetings.
Around the thanksgiving dinner table.
Wherever you are, how can you change the world by showing others kindness?