Is it truly easy to be Kind?

The very first lesson that we are taught as kids is that kindness matters, and very soon it also becomes the first thing society expects from us. But as we grow up, we see different sides of kindness. Some people are called kind because society says they are. Others spend their lives trying to live up to that label, while some give up after a few attempts. Which makes me think:

If society has the right definition of kindness to judge people?

Society does not really have one “right” definition of kindness to judge people by. Kindness means different things to different people, while for some it can be something as simple as being polite, other may look for empathy or generosity, which makes it tricky to settle on a single definition that satisfy everyone, and also there unique cultures, values, and expectations. But then true kindness was never really about meeting society’s standards, the expectation has always been simple, to be genuine and consistent in our efforts in how we treat others.

How can we be truly kind to others in a meaningful and consistent way?

Kindness was never tied to big gestures, it has always been part of our every day lives.
Treating people fairly and with respect, regardless of their social status, is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to practice kindness. It means you value people for who they are, and not for what they have and can do for you.
By simply giving someone your undivided attention when they are sharing something with you not only gives them satisfaction of feeling heard and respected, but also gives you a chance to help them in a more aligned way.
Kindness should always begin closer to home. Appreciating your family and loved ones, and letting them know how much they mean to you, help creates strong bonds. And it is true that when we treat people at home with kindness, it becomes much easier to extend the same kindness outward.
Most of these acts of kindness come naturally when we are with people who love and support us. But then true kindness asks for more, it requires us to behave the same way even with those who may not treat us with the same warmth or acceptance. Choosing patience and compassion when it feels difficult is what makes it real.

How can we be kind to ourselves?

While we were busy measuring kindness by how we show up for others, we forget that kindness also mean treating ourselves with the same care that we so readily offer.
Being kind to yourself starts with accepting your imperfections, every time you fail give yourself that space to get up and and start again.
Don’t wait for that overwhelm or burnout to break you down, start today by slowing down, allowing yourself to rest and celebrate even the smallest wins.
Make time for the things that bring joy, whether it is a hobby, moments with family and friends, or quiet time alone.
Stop being your harshest critic, start speaking to yourself gently and forgive yourself as easily as you forgive others.

I have always struggled with being kind to myself, and even though it never stopped me from showing up for others, it often left me drained and exhausted. With time, I am realizing that the fuel to genuinely show for others comes from within and it is only when I am patient and compassionate with myself, can I be truly kind to the world around me. If you are someone like me who struggles with practicing self kindness, share your thoughts in the comments, I would love to read them.