The Gift of Kindness: A Deliberate Act of Love
What is the gift of Kindness š and how is it a deliberate act of love?
Kindness is the 7th gift of your 12 gifts in 12 days - Your Blueprint for a Meaningful Life and is one of the most powerful presents you can give this holiday season and beyond. Just imagine for a moment: what would the world look like if every single person practiced a little more kindness? Think about the ripple effect of small, thoughtful actionsāa simple smile, a heartfelt compliment, or lending a hand when someone needs it most.
What Is Kindness?
Kindness is an intentional action that shows care, compassion, and concern for others. It doesnāt require grand gestures or expensive gifts. Often, itās the smallest actsāa word of encouragement, holding a door open, or even listening with patienceāthat leave the biggest impression. When you give kindness, you not only brighten someone elseās day but also create joy within yourself.
Science backs this up! Studies show that acts of kindness can increase levels of oxytocināsometimes called the ālove hormoneāāwhich boosts feelings of warmth and trust. Being kind can also lower stress, reduce anxiety, and even improve your overall health. Itās like a gift that keeps on giving, both for the giver and the receiver.
A Kind Moment In My Life
I remember a day ---not too long ago ---when I was waiting in the drive-thru line at my favorite coffee shop. Now, Iāll be honestāI wasnāt feeling particularly patient. (especially since I needed my coffee)ā¦ you know how that feels right? Anywayā¦ My āto-do listā was long, and I was hoping this drive-through line would move fasterā¦ so I could get my coffee and get back to work.
When I finally got to the window to pick up my coffee, the barista handed it to me with a big smile and said, āYour order has been paid for by the person ahead of you.ā I was stunned! At that moment, my focus shifted entirely. Here I was, caught up in my busyness, and someone elseāsomeone I didnāt even knowāhad taken the time to show a little kindness.
That my friend, is Kindness.
It wasnāt about the money, of course. It was the thoughtfulness behind itāthe reminder that even in our rushed, hectic lives, we can take a moment to think about someone else.
That simple act of kindness turned my whole day around, like a warm hug I didnāt even know I needed.
How Can You Show the Gift of Kindness?
Here are three simple action items you can implement starting today:
1. Give Compliments Freely: The next time you notice something positive about someone, speak up! Maybe a co-worker has a great idea, or your friend is wearing a color that suits them perfectly. Let them know. Genuine compliments are an easy way to lift someoneās spirits.
2. Pay It Forward: Have you ever been in a coffee shop and had someone pay for your drink? Itās a small act, but it leaves a big impact (just me on this one, I know). These little surprises can make someoneās day.
3. Be Patient and Present: In a world full of distractions, offering someone your full attention is an act of kindness in itself. Whether itās listening to a friend vent about their day or helping a neighbor carry their groceriesā¦ being fully present shows that you care.
Letās Wrap This Up
Kindness is not just for the holidays; itās a lifestyle. How can you make it part of your everyday routine? Start by practicing Self-Kindness. You canāt pour from an empty cup, so take time to care for yourself and speak kindly to yourself. When youāre gentle with your own heart, it becomes easier to extend that same kindness to others.
Start today and make every day, a day full of intentional acts of Kindness.
Iām cheering š£ for you!
sign up here to get your gift in your email inbox over the next 12 days.