In a world with no lack of misery, war, and anger, being kind to your neighbor may seem insignificant if not a foreign concept.
Whether that neighbor lives directly next to you, in a shelter across town or somewhere halfway around the globe, we are all interconnected as members of the human race.
It's crucial to show love and kindness to others. If you struggle in showing kindness, or want to practice greater kindness, consider taking these steps:
1. Consider the other person's perspective. Yes, it's cliche, but "Put yourself in the other person's shoes." What are they feeling? How are they coping? Avoiding someone's need is a form of unkindness.
• Even if someone offends you, decide to take the high road. Their reaction may be fueled by something unknown to you. Give them the benefit of the doubt. Respond with kindness.
2. Be grateful. Set aside time at the end of each day to count your blessings. Take a look at all the positive things in your life and be grateful.
• For every act of kindness you've been blessed with, pay it forward. If you counted ten blessings today, why not be kind to others ten times tomorrow? Soon, you’ll discover you have formed a habit of being kind to others.
3. Find a sharing partner. Ask a friend or family member to become your sharing partner. Consider how you can share every tangible gift or blessing with that person.
• Devote time for sharing stories of kindness you received from others. Reflecting on these moments can increase your gratitude for every good thing in your life. It also foster reciprocity for you to share with those in need.
4. Smile at everyone you meet. As strange as it sounds, there are special powers in a smile. “A warm smile is the universal language of kindness,” wrote William Arthur Ward.
• Studies show that smiling releases good hormones into your body, relationships improve, stress is reduced, you project positivity, and many other benefits, including living longer.
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As with every other positive habit, developing consistent kindness takes practice. This is especially true if it’s not something that comes easily for you. So take it one day at a time. Look for the opportunity to be kind to someone today. If you look, you’ll surely find that opportunity!
Resources
Psychology to Grin About: The Benefits of Smiling and Laughter