On kindness

I am convinced that a big part of what is needed is very simply [but also sort of quite complicatedly] more kindness.

Kindness can be understood as a series of acts but I prefer to think of it as an approach – to life.

Being kind is not about being all saccharine-sweet all the time. Kindness embraces: listening carefully; acknowledging others’ ideas; speaking thoughtfully [to others and to yourself]; assuming the best; giving helpfully; holding back; being patient; making time; and respecting your own boundaries.

When you choose kindness, life shifts: you connect with people; opportunities appear; you feel calmer and more confident and happier within yourself. Kindness reminds you that your life is in your control, no matter who you are or what you have or what is happening, out there.

Being kind is easy when stuff is working out, when you feel robust and happy and satisfied. It is much more challenging [and, perhaps, more important] when things aren’t travelling so well.

Adopting kindness as an attitude can take a little while to get used to. Hold it lightly. Set the intention at the start of each day and just notice: how choosing kindness shifts the way you experience life.