The holiday season can be totally overwhelming, can’t it? There are so many demands on our time and attention. From the gambit of shopping lists to end-of-year deadlines, our days are filled to the brim. That is not even considering the drain on our pocketbook! During this overwhelming season, my father, The Colonel, would often remind me of a simple but powerful truth: “KINDNESS costs you nothing but gives you everything.”
Kindness is an act that doesn’t require a season, a reason, or a calendar reminder, but the holidays give us a perfect chance to remember its true value. Amidst the busy routines, offering a smile to a stranger, a listening ear to a friend, or a moment of empathy toward someone in need can have a tremendous impact. These seemingly trivial acts create ripples that go further than we could ever realize.
Dad said, “Choose Kindness, kid, and the weight on your heart will go away.” The Colonel taught me that kindness is not just a way to lift others – it’s a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. In leadership and in life, kindness breeds trust and respect, two foundational qualities that define meaningful connections and successful teams. And just like any muscle, the more we practice kindness, the stronger our empathy muscle becomes.
Not just during the holiday season, but every day – let’s challenge ourselves to lead with kindness. Hold the door a moment longer, call an old friend, be patient in traffic, and offer a sincere word of encouragement. When we take these steps to uplift others, we create an environment where kindness becomes contagious. And here’s the real beauty of it – kindness doesn’t just transform others; it transforms us. It helps us feel more connected, more fulfilled, and more joyful.
So, as you go through the rest of this holiday season, remember that kindness is a gift that multiplies. Let’s give generously, lead graciously, and greet each day with the intention to make someone else’s day a little brighter.
May your day be filled with warmth, joy, and the profound impact of simple acts of kindness.
Read Lauren’s Whitepaper on The Nine Essentials of Significant Leadership.
