What acts of kindness have you done this week?
Being kind doesn’t have to be a big generous gesture. Often it’s the smallest acts of kindness that have the biggest impact. Think back to a time when you’ve been feeling fed up, or low, then a stranger has paid you a compliment.
I remember working at the hospital and finding that often, the most common place to find acts of kindness was in the lift! So many people were coming and going. Patients looking really poorly, with a nurse or friend there holding their hand. People lost, struggling to find their way around the hospital and often it took a few of us to figure out where they needed to be – one of us would offer to get out early and show them the way. Porters singing, whistling or just generally amusing us with little jokes on the way up. A clinician complimenting someone on their shoes or scarf. It really makes someone’s day!
One day I got in the lift and someone commented on how slim I was looking (after I’d been on a diet for quite a while). That kind compliment put a smile on my face for the rest of the day and I kept telling people about it. It also encouraged me to compliment others that day – the kindness was carried forward to others. Much like a smile.
We all go through waves of happiness and sadness, but these small gestures are like a light in the darkness. This year, more than ever, we have seen kindness shared in so many ways. It’s free. There are no qualifications needed to do it. Just human nature. Go forth and be kind!!! And while you’re at it, be kind to yourself too.
#coachinglife #worldkindnessday2020 #smile #bekind #payitforward