GROWING WITH KINDNESS

Growing with Kindness By Jane Marks

Navigating a pandemic, witnessing trauma weekly, dealing with a global and personal crisis, as well as our country’s racial reckoning have all become a regular part of our lives. As we begin the month, let’s consider a concept that will have a real, lasting, positive impact on all of us. Kindness. Too often, amid the busyness of our everyday lives, we forget to be mindful and present during our interactions with others. Time and time again, kindness is not a priority. But when we express care, concern, consideration, and compassion toward others, the benefits to our mental and physiological health are well-documented.

So, let’s take a different look at kindness this month:

1. Let’s learn to listen this month. Make room for new learning and growth. If we take the time to listen without judgment, we may discover that our similarities outweigh our differences.

2. Each day, we should highlight a positive quality about someone with whom we come in contact.

3. Let someone know that you love what they do—a musician, healthcare worker, cashier, etc. This can change the course of someone’s day. Remember, random acts of kindness are contagious. 4. Being kind often means being candid. Too often, we don’t have the courage to be straightforward.

Let’s give meaningful responses to people’s concerns rather than short answers.

5. Drive with kindness—not only in traffic but also in conversations. This is a great gift we can give to others as well as ourselves.

6. Be kind to yourself. Self-compassion is vital to our health. Kindness will help create real change.