It’s like putting on shoes when going on a hike, or wearing a hat in the winter. I mean, not exactly, but hear me out. Those I said were both things that aren’t technically necessary, but make those things a lot easier and well, more enjoyable. Being kind makes LIFE more enjoyable. And much easier. Let me tell you why.

First comes first, what does it mean to be “kind”? Google says “a group of people or things having similar characteristics”. I think they missed the memo. We’ll have to leave the Google definition behind. Being kind is a very broad topic. I think everyone has this mutual concept of kindness, but if you were to explain it to an alien from a new planet, it’d be a bit hard. Being kind is respecting others values and opinions, taking one for the team, and of course simply doing things for others and yourself. It’s like a tiny pebble thrown into a pond, that makes a big ripple. Bet you haven’t heard that before. There’s more to it than that, but I don’t want to make this all about a definition.

So why be kind? So many reasons. Sometimes it can be hard, but sometimes it’s a lot easier to be kind than not. What benefit do you get out of being negative? Okay maybe you feel powerful in the moment, or that feeling you get when you tell someone off or get “revenge”, but trust me, a different attitude makes a world of difference. You feel like the bigger person and you just know what you did was likely right, no doubt about it. And well, think, would you rather surround yourself with people who treat you how you want to be treated, or people who simply don’t. Someone who checks in on you when you’re down, or says it’s too much effort to do so. Call me unoriginal, but it’s important to treat others how you want to be treated.

I don’t want to get into this much, but in Canada right now, there’s a lot going on and like anything big and media related, a lot of different views and opinions. If you live in Canada I understand the upset you get when you see things that go against you or what you stand for. It’s hard for everyone, especially when there isn’t much listening going on. I just ask those who are voicing opinion to do it out of respect, and be kind to others. The right attitude creates the best environment, and helps others to understand.

While being kind to others is what we’re taught the most, being kind to yourself is ESSENTIAL. Taking that break when you need it, even if it’s short. Fuelling your body with nutritious things that will make it thrive, or better yet, what makes you happy. I’m not saying load up on the candy and chips, but if that bag of chips is what you need in the moment, do yourself a favour and eat the chips. I mean, this mint chocolate bar I bought earlier is definitely making me happy as I slowly make it disappear. It’s also crucial do to things to make your mind happy. Like going for a walk, or reading a book, or watching you favourite movie for the seventeenth time. And overall, taking care of yourself is being kind to yourself. If you’re still reading, I challenge you to drink 8 cups of water a day for the next week. Will it make you feel better after a week? It’s different for everyone. Will you feel proud that you managed to keep up with it for seven days? I would.

I think everyone knows that we should be kind. Everyone is usually told this at a young age. But have you ever really thought about why? If so I hope reading this sparked some thought. Another challenge for you, try to do at least one “kind” thing in your daily life that makes you or another person smile. Holding a door, making yourself a fancy breakfast, or literally anything else that you know would bring some joy. Have a great Monday everyone!

Quick added feature before you go; I put up a question box on my Instagram asking why we should be kind, and here are some answers I got:                        -It’s a good purpose and it always branches out!                          -So that you treat others the way you want to be treated, spreading positive energy.                             -EVERYONE is fighting a battle that they don’t talk about. 
- When you give kindness it’s a gift to others and also yourself. Kindness multiplies.
- You never know what someone is going through and kindness can go a long way.