"Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind." - Henry James, Novelist
I often hear “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” I see it in articles, on t-shirts, on posters, and in memes!
Few would disagree with the importance of kindness – but it is rare.
Why is it difficult?
Why do we need to be reminded to act with kindness?
Why can’t we “just do it”?
In his article, “7 Reasons why it's hard to be kind”, (https://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2019/11/7-reasons-why-its-hard-to-be-kind.html), Jonathan Fisher, MD, discusses this.
He talks about the seven common obstacles keeping us from practicing kindness every moment of every day:
1. Distraction. - We can get so busy doing that we forget how we wish to be.
2. Frustration - We are often thrown off balance when things don’t go the way we’d like.
3. Rumination. - We are so often stuck reliving yesterday’s worries and negative thoughts.
4. Anticipation. - We rush through our moments trying to get to the next place or “to-do” item.
5. Exhaustion. – We are often running on reserve.
6. Fear - It’s easy for the mind to default to defensive and self-protective instincts.
7. Judgment – which keeps us from connecting with others. In fact, we use this one often with ourselves.
"If we want to spread the ripple effects of kindness — to our families, workplaces, and communities — we need to know what we are up against, and why it’s easier said than done."
Being kind takes more effort than you would think. Make it a priority and get started today!
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