Kindness Is A Strength, Not A Weakness

Often times, being kind is viewed as a weakness. Whether it is being kind to ourselves, or being kind to those around us. There is a misconception that we have push ourselves harder so that we can get more out of life. There is a misconception that we have to point out what others are doing incorrectly instead of saying well done. Heck, if we don’t say no to things, we are viewed as pushovers. But what if it is actually the exact opposite? What if kindness is a strength, not a weakness? In all reality, kindness is a strength and negativity is the real weakness.

Do me a favor right now. Think back on the last time that you went out of your way to do something nice for someone else. Maybe you held the door open, bought someone else dinner, or even told someone that they looked nice. Now, think back on the last time that you criticized someone, told them to “f off,” or thought of yourself as more valuable. The sad thing is that 99% of the time, we are going to hatred more often than we are going to show kindness.

Well, how about yourself? Think back on the last time that you went out of your way to do something nice for yourself. Maybe you bought yourself something, congratulated yourself for working hard, or even told yourself that you look nice. Now, think back on the last time that you criticized yourself, told yourself that you aren’t good enough, or even doubted where you are in life. Again, 99% of the time we are going to show hatred more often than we are going to show kindness.

Why? Because it is easier. Living with hatred, and spreading negativity is easy. Kindness on the other hand, kindness is a strength. It is much more difficult, and courageous to be kind than it is to hate.

Kindness is a strength that is contagious. When we focus on kindness, and when we focus on making a positive impact, we are less stressed in our own lives. We are more positive (which is always fun), and we are more motivated to achieve our dreams. With a positive attitude and increased motivation, we become capable of achieving any amount of success.

But it isn’t just about benefiting us as individuals. By being kind, we also have the opportunity to impact someone else’s day. Something as simple as smiling at others, or saying hello can help turn a bad day into a bright day. Kindness shows hope, kindness shows care, and it helps others to see the good things in life. Everybody could use a little more good in life. Sometimes, we just need a little light from others to see it.

So if you truly want to achieve something difficult, try showing kindness to not only yourself, but to those around you. Open your heart and try to make a positive impact in the world. Hold the door open for others, mow someone’s lawn, maybe even try smiling at them. It is not hard to be kind. Think before you speak, and think before you act. Live with the intention of doing good for yourself, and good for others. Together, me, you, and everyone around us have an opportunity to fill the world with the greatest strength possible. We have an opportunity to fill the world with kindness.  

Michael Bonnell

8/24/2018

 

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