I Choose Kindness

Embrace the Power of Kindness: Make a Difference One Act at a Time.

Life is too short to be indifferent. I choose to practice random acts of kindness.

Every day, we encounter countless opportunities to practice random acts of kindness. It could be as simple as offering a smile to a stranger, lending a helping hand to someone in need, or taking the time to listen and offer support to a friend. These small acts may seem insignificant, but they have the power to create ripples of positivity that can transform lives and communities. My daughter is great at this. Even though she is not comfortable with new people, she is the first to genuinely compliment a random stranger, their reactions are heartwarming and priceless.

In a world that often feels divided, I choose to focus on kindness. To me, kindness is not just about being nice to someone; it’s about going out of my way to show that I genuinely care. It’s about making a conscious effort to make a positive impact in the lives of others. One area where I’ve noticed the need for improvement is when I get busy and become short-tempered when interrupted. I use these moments as reminders to shift my focus and do something positive and kind for someone else.

I also have a soft spot for the underdog. Having experienced being picked on and bullied myself, I empathize with others who face similar challenges. Whenever I witness someone in such a situation, I strive to take action and improve their circumstances. At times, it can be tempting to pass by someone who needs help. We may find ourselves out of our comfort zone, feeling nervous or uncomfortable, or worrying about what others might think. But when we push past those barriers, we often experience the most profound satisfaction. Knowing that we have potentially impacted someone’s circumstances for the better is a feeling that cannot be replicated.

Intentional kindness is a choice we make to brighten someone else’s day, even in the midst of our own busyness.

This Blog is part of our Choose for Yourself 21-day Challenge. Chick HERE to learn more.

Benefits of Kindness.

Kindness has a ripple effect that extends far beyond the initial act. It not only brings joy and warmth to the recipient but also uplifts the giver. It promotes empathy, strengthens relationships, and fosters a sense of belonging. Kindness reduces stress, boosts happiness, and improves overall well-being. It creates a positive and harmonious environment, inspiring others to pay it forward. In a world divided, kindness has the power to bridge gaps, heal wounds, and create a more compassionate society.

So, let us choose kindness. Let us make a conscious effort to go beyond our comfort zones and be the catalysts for change. Kindness transcends boundaries of race, religion, and social status. It reminds us of our shared humanity and the power we have to make a positive difference. Together, we can create a world where acts of kindness are not just random occurrences, but a way of life. Life is too short to be indifferent. Embrace the power of kindness and make a difference, one act at a time.

Simple Acts of Kindness.

Random acts of kindness can be simple yet impactful gestures that brighten someone’s day. Here are some ideas for random acts of kindness that anyone can do:

Smile and greet strangers with kindness.
Pay for the coffee or meal of the person behind you in line.
Write a heartfelt thank you note or send a kind message to someone you appreciate.
Offer to help carry groceries or hold the door open for someone.
Leave a generous tip for a service worker who has provided excellent service.
Send flowers or a small gift to a friend or family member just because.
Offer to babysit or pet-sit for a friend or neighbor who could use a break.
Donate gently used clothes, books, or household items to a local charity.
Volunteer your time at a community organization or shelter.
Compliment a stranger sincerely and uplift their day.
Offer to mow the lawn or shovel snow for an elderly neighbor.
Leave positive reviews or feedback for businesses or services you appreciate.
Share your knowledge or skills by offering to teach or mentor someone.
Send a care package or handwritten letter to someone who could use some encouragement.
Practice active listening and be fully present when someone needs to talk.

Remember, acts of kindness can be tailored to your own abilities and the needs of those around you. The most important thing is to approach each act with genuine care and compassion, spreading positivity and making a difference in someone’s life, no matter how small.

Your Turn: Choose Kindness.

Here are a couple of journal prompts to explore the theme of being kind.

Become Aware

Become aware of how you use and could benefit from kindness.

What does being kind mean to you? How do you express kindness in your daily life? Consider specific actions, behaviors, or attitudes that align with your understanding of kindness.
Think about a time when someone showed you an act of kindness that deeply impacted you. How did that experience make you feel? How did it influence your perspective on kindness? How can you incorporate that experience into your own practice of kindness towards others?
Reflect on the impact of kindness on your own well-being.
- How does practicing kindness affect your mood, mindset, and sense of fulfillment? Are there instances where you noticed a positive impact?
- How does NOT practicing kindness affect your mood, mindset, and sense of fulfillment? Are there instances where you noticed a negative impact?
Notice any observations (gaps, triggers, patterns, and situations) where you could have shown kindness but didn’t. What is the impact?
Acknowledge your (insert observation) and it is (insert impact)

I am aware ______________________ and it is _________________________.

Be Grateful

Be grateful for becoming aware of times when you choose not to express kindness. Now you can use them to remind you to be kind.

Identify one observation you want to become aware of and use as a reminder to be kind.
What is the mindset you want to have once you become aware.
Change your perspective, be grateful for (insert observation), because it reminds you to (insert mindset).

I am grateful ________________________ and because now I can __________________________.