Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the most beautiful of them all: Kindness

The Oxford dictionary defines kindness as, “the quality of being kind to treat someone with kindness and consideration.” However, we already know that kindness goes much beyond that. 

Acts of kindness are present everywhere. You can find it in the little things people do for you, and in the bigger ones that people do for the world as a whole. From helping a friend with their luggage to donating to a cause, kindness comes in all shapes and sizes. 

What is world kindness day?

World Kindness Day, a global day to promote the importance of being kind to each other, yourself and to the world is celebrated worldwide on November 13. This day dedicated to kindness was conceived in the year 1997, when World Kindness Movement hosted the first of their conference in Tokyo, Japan. By 1998, the day had become an annual event, observed at a global level. 

If Harry Styles says it, why not listen? #TPWK

“Maybe we can find a place to feel good,

And we can treat people with kindness.”

Several celebrities engage in philanthropy, but to find someone who dedicates their art to the cause is rare. With the release of the music video for ‘Treat People With Kindness’, Harry Styles started a movement to bring the world together with an unreserved responsibility to practice kindness. 

Why be kind?

Kindness roots from the selfless desire to do good for others. However, there are some benefits to giving back to the world. 

1. Reduces Loneliness:

When you help someone out, you create a permanent impact on their memory. People always remember acts of kindness. By being a compassionate individual, you build relationships that will nurture you the same way you have nurtured them. 

2.  Builds Perspective:

Compassion exposes you to stories very different from your own. Stories from those who walked a tough road, can help you be grateful for the things you have. 

3) Health Benefits:

The act of being kind, triggers the release of oxytocin in the brain, and throughout the body. Oxytocin is known to regulate blood pressure, and improve the health of your heart. Being kind literally makes your heart healthier. 

Don’t forget about yourself!

“If you were arrested for being kind to yourself...would there be enough evidence to convict you?”

 — Peter McWilliams

When working to be a kind individual, never forget you need to be just as kind to yourself. Cut yourself some slack, take out time for things you enjoy, and remember, you do not have to deal with every atrocity by yourself.

Asking for help has a lot of stigma around it. The first step is to acknowledge you need help. Put your burden down for a while, talk to people, and you would be surprised how many of them could help you carry that weight. 

Kindness comes in all shapes and sizes. As an organization dedicated to helping those in need, we believe that with every kind act, all of us can make the world a better place. 

*Please note that any views expressed are those of the authors’ and do not reflect the beliefs or opinions or views of ImpactGuru.