Essay on Kindness

500 words essay on kindness.

The world we live in today has been through a lot of things from world wars to epidemics, but one thing which remained constant throughout was resilience and kindness. Moreover, it was the spirit to fight back and help out each other. Kindness must be an essential and universal quality to make the world a better place. Through an essay on kindness, we will go through it in detail.

essay on kindness

Importance of Kindness

Kindness towards nature, animals and other people has the ability to transform the world and make it a beautiful place for living. But, it is also important to remember that kindness towards you is also essential for personal growth.

Kindness is basically being polite, compassionate and thoughtful. Every religion and faith teaches its followers to be kind. Most importantly, kindness must not limit to humans but also to every living creature.

Even nature has its own way of showing kindness. For instance, the trees grow fruits for us and provide us with shade. One must not see kindness as a core value but as a fundamental behavioural element. When you are kind to your loved ones, you create a stable base.

As people are becoming more self-centred today, we must learn kindness. We must try to integrate it into ourselves. You might not know how a small act of kindness can bring about a change in someone’s life. So, be kind always.

Kindness Always Wins

There is no doubt that kindness always wins and it has been proven time and again by people. Sid is a greedy man who does not share his wealth with anyone, not even his family members.

He also does not pay his workers well. One day, he loses his bag of gold coins and loses his temper. Everyone helps him out to search for it but no one finds it. Finally, his worker’s little son finds the bag.

Upon checking the bag, he sees all the coins are there. But, his greed makes him play a trick on the poor worker. He claims that there were more coins in the bag and the worker stole them.

The issue goes to the court and the judge confirms from Sid whether his bag had more coins to which he agrees. So, the judge rules out that as Sid’s bag had more coins , the bag which the worker’s son found is not his.

Therefore, the bag gets handed to the worker as no one else claims it. Consequently, you see how the worker’s son act of kindness won and paid him well. On the other hand, how Sid’s greediness resulted in his loss only.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Conclusion of the Essay on Kindness

It is essential for all of us to understand the value of kindness. Always remember, it does not cost anything to be kind. It may be a little compliment or it can be a grand gesture, no matter how big or small, kindness always matters. Therefore, try your best to be kind to everyone around you.

FAQ of Essay on Kindness

Question 1: Why is it important to be kind?

Answer 1: It is important to be kind because it makes one feel good about oneself. When you do things for other people and help them with anything, it makes you feel warm and that you have accomplished something. Moreover, you also get respect in return.

Question 2: Why is kindness so powerful?

Answer 2: Kindness has a lot of benefits which includes increased happiness and a healthy heart . It slows down the ageing process and also enhances relationships and connections, which will indirectly boost your health.

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Kindness Essay

Kindness is a valuable trait that can have a positive impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. It can help to build strong relationships, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve our physical health. However, it's important to remember that being kind can be difficult at times, and it takes practice and patience to make it a consistent part of our daily lives. Here are a few sample essays on kindness.

Kindness Essay

100 Word Essay On Kindness

There has been a saying that “be kind and do kind” means that be soulfully and mindfully kind so that you can do. Kindness is a type of behaviour that is marked by acts of generosity, consideration, rendering assistance or concern for others without expecting any praise or reward in return for the same.

Kindness is one of the main topics in the Bible, and it is a topic which is well taught and praised by every religion in the world. Nietzsche has said kindness and love are considered to be the "most curative herbs and agents in human intercourse". Not only this but there have been practitioners who have identified kindness as one of the most beautiful things to happen to mankind.

200 Word Essay On Kindness

Kindness and love are closely intertwined, as one often leads to the other. When we act out of generosity and do something good for others, we are likely to receive similar or even greater acts of kindness in return. This is the principle of karma, where we reap what we sow. By being kind to others, we are able to empathise and put ourselves in their shoes, and in doing so, we are able to make a positive impact on their lives.

The practice of kindness has many benefits, not just for the recipients, but also for the giver. It can help to build friendships, bring joy and make life more fulfilling. In a world where competition can often be fierce, it is important to teach the younger generation the importance of kindness and generosity. By fostering these qualities in schools, we can help to create a kinder, more compassionate society.

There are countless books, articles and other resources that explore the topic of kindness in depth. But despite this, society as a whole has yet to fully embrace a culture of kindness on a broader level. By making a conscious effort to be kind to others, we can work together to make the world a better place for all.

500 Word Essay On Kindness

Kindness is a powerful force that has the ability to change lives, both for the giver and the receiver. It is defined as the act of being considerate and caring towards others, and it encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from small acts of generosity to large acts of selflessness.

One of the benefits of being kind is that it can help to build strong and meaningful relationships. When we are kind to others, we demonstrate that we care about them and that we value their well-being. This can help to create a sense of trust and understanding, which are essential ingredients for any healthy relationship.

Another benefit of kindness is that it can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that acts of kindness can trigger the release of feel-good hormones in the brain, such as oxytocin and serotonin, which can help to improve our mood and reduce feelings of stress.

Additionally, kindness can also have a positive impact on our physical health. Research has shown that people who engage in acts of kindness on a regular basis have a lower risk of developing certain chronic conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

One way to make kindness a regular practice is to set small and achievable goals for ourselves. For example, we can make a commitment to perform one act of kindness per day, or to make a conscious effort to be more understanding and empathetic towards others. Another way is to remind ourselves that kindness is not only about grand gestures, but also about small actions that can have a big impact on someone's life.

Personal Experience

I remember the day when a severe storm hit my village, leaving many of the houses damaged and people homeless. As I walked around the village, I saw the destruction and the despair on the faces of my fellow villagers. I knew that I had to do something to help.

I rallied my friends and together we set out to repair the houses and provide shelter for those who had lost theirs. It was hard work, but we were determined to help as many people as possible. We worked tirelessly, through the rain and the wind, never once complaining.

As we went from house to house, I could see the gratitude and appreciation on the faces of the people we were helping. It was a small act of kindness, but it made such a big difference in their lives.

Through our efforts, the village slowly began to recover, and the people were able to rebuild their homes and their lives. But the kindness we had shown was not forgotten. We had shown the villagers that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, and that through kindness and compassion, we can overcome any obstacle.

From that day on, I felt proud of my actions, and I realized the power of kindness. I had shown that one person's kindness can make a huge impact in the lives of many. I felt a sense of accomplishment and happiness that I was able to bring people together and make a difference.

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✍️Essay on Kindness: Samples in 100, 150 and 200 Words

essay on an act of kindness

  • Updated on  
  • Nov 2, 2023

Essay on kindness

Research says that being kind to someone or vice versa can positively rewire your brain. Kindness is when one is generous to another person. Well, in today’s world, it is very difficult. We can hardly find anyone. Do you wish to bring a change in your lifestyle ? Well, you have come to the right place. Today, we will be talking about kindness in depth. Here, in this article, we have compiled several sample essays on kindness which describe this topic in depth. 

Table of Contents

  • 1 Importance of Kindness
  • 2 Essay on Kindness in 100 Words
  • 3 Essay on Kindness in 150 Words
  • 4 Essay on Kindness in 200 Words

Importance of Kindness

Kindness is an effortless yet powerful gesture which put a very positive impact on someone’s life. In the academic community, this gesture is seen as an attitude that can create a huge impact on one’s achievement. 

Speaking in a bit of a medical language, being kind to someone boosts serotonin and dopamine. These brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, are what light up your reward and pleasure centres and give you a sense of fulfilment.

This doesn’t end here. Kindness has been shown to have cardioprotective effects. It can lower blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol, which in turn affects stress levels. 

Speaking of which, here, we have compiled an essay on kindness which will provide you with more information on this topic. Let’s dive in. 

Also Read: Essay on the Importance of the English Language for Students

Essay on Kindness in 100 Words

Being kind is a basic virtue which is very important for humankind to create a world that is more peaceful and compassionate. It is one of the most straightforward acts which can be shown by anyone to others without expecting anything in return. When it comes to showing kindness, there are many ways by which one can show it. These include opening doors for others giving your time to support a good cause or simply being with them during their hard times. 

Always remember that even showing a tiny act of kindness can create a huge impact in someone’s life or simply make their day better. 

Also Read: Essay on Save Environment: Samples in 100, 200, 300 Words

Essay on Kindness in 150 Words

Kindness is a feeling of being generous, friendly and considerate. In a world full of hatred and cruelty, kindness is what one can spread. You never know whom you might someone from a having bad day. One can simply start spreading kindness in the community they are living in. 

One of the best examples to describe the word kindness would be Mother Teresa . She devoted her entire life to caring for the destitute and dying in the slums of Calcutta (Kolkata). She is considered to be one of the greatest humanitarians the world has ever produced.

Speaking of kindness, doing little things such as opening a door for someone. Helping an elderly person cross the street, or holding things of someone are some basic things which can be done.

To conclude, kindness is contagious. It can spread like wildfire. Therefore, in a world where there is so much hatred, and cruelty, where people are fighting. One can be kind which will provoke others to do the same. 

Also Read: Essay on Unity in Diversity in 100 to 200 Words

Essay on Kindness in 200 Words

Kindness is one of the most important qualities which people should have. This is very important to create a more compassionate and harmonious world. The simple act of being considerate towards others and not expecting anything in return is kindness. The word ‘kindness’ can be expressed in many different ways. From helping someone during tough times to helping an old lady cross the street is what best describes this word. 

Other than this, kindness is also beneficial for our well-being. Studies show that people who are kind to people around them tend to be more happy than others. This is because of the endorphins which are released. They contribute towards mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects. Not only this, kindness has also proved to have reduced stress levels and improved cardiovascular health.

To conclude, I would like to leave you all with a thought. In today’s times, we hardly come across kind people. Consider ourselves, we may feel for others around us going through the bad phase but how often do we reach out and assist them? It is our responsibility to nurture kindness in ourselves before we can ask others to do the same for us.

Related Articles 

We hope after reading some of these essays on kindness, your perspective on kindness would have changed. Always remember, everyone is fighting their own battles, so the best you can do is be a little kind and bring a smile to their face. Signing off!

There are certain advantages to our happiness and general well-being for those of us who are kind and caring. Perhaps we will live longer. Additionally, kindness lowers stress and enhances mental health.

These expressions describe persons who are kind, considerate, and considerate of others’ feelings.

Kindness belongs to the human virtue category and is one of the 24 universal character strengths.

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay-writing page and follow Leverage Edu ! 

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Malvika Chawla

Malvika is a content writer cum news freak who comes with a strong background in Journalism and has worked with renowned news websites such as News 9 and The Financial Express to name a few. When not writing, she can be found bringing life to the canvasses by painting on them.

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Why Random Acts of Kindness Matter to Your Well-being

Being kind can have an impact on your psychological and physical health..

Posted November 16, 2017 | Reviewed by Lybi Ma

Mother Teresa once said, “We cannot do great things on this earth, only small things with great love.”

Small acts of kindness resonate in all our lives. For example:

  • Letting someone cut in front of you in a traffic jam.
  • Stopping to talk with an elderly neighbor, even though you are in a rush.
  • Lending a helping hand to a co-worker who’s behind on their project, even though this means that you will have to stay late at work.
  • Giving a gift certificate for a dinner out to a couple who you know are facing hard times.

Kindness means a behavioral response of compassion and actions that are selfless; or a mindset that places compassion for others before one’s own interests. In performing the selfless act, a person may undercut their own selfish interests.

Kindness is a value that is often disregarded. Why is kindness so undervalued? In part, it’s because kind people may be viewed as “enablers” by some, or worse, as “suckers” by the cynical. Thus, the cynic’s view that one is a “sucker,” if one behaves in a kind manner toward others, reflects a belief system that success is only achieved through stepping on or ignoring others. Yet, the cynic’s behavior rarely results in true happiness —that sense of feeling loved, that one’s true destiny and purpose are fulfilled, and that what one is doing matters in the most profound sense.

In fact, kindness is linked inextricably to happiness and contentment—at both psychological and spiritual levels. Over a decade ago, in a study of Japanese undergraduates, researcher Otake and colleagues, found that happy people were kinder than people who were not happy. Their study also revealed and that one’s sense of happiness increased by the simple act of counting the number of one’s acts of kindness. Counting one’s acts of kindness also led happy people to become more kind and grateful.

Why do random acts of kindness increase a person’s sense of happiness? Because kindness can promote gratitude . You are kind to others in need; having that awareness then heightens the sense of your own good fortune. Kindness promotes empathy and compassion; which in turn, leads to a sense of interconnectedness with others. Kindness can forward the will to live in depressed individuals who feel isolated and different; that is why performing volunteer work is so powerful. When you feel connected with others, you lessen alienation and you enhance the sense that we are more similar than dissimilar in our experiences. Feeling connected melds us together rather than divides us. Kindness is potent in strengthening a sense of community and belonging.

Researcher, Barbara Fredrickson, had an interesting viewpoint—that kindness, specifically loving-kindness, moved one out of the selfish realm. Stated differently, it took one off the hedonic treadmill . Compassion and kindness also reduce stress , boost our immune systems, and help reduce negative emotions such as anger , anxiety , and depression .

When we practice random acts of kindness,

  • It releases positivity: We feel better and the recipients of our acts feel better, which then makes them more likely to be kind to other people.
  • It can release neurochemicals that result in a sense of well-being, the “helper’s high,” as Allan Luks and Peggy Payne describe the healing power of doing good. In fact, the neural circuits that are involved in chemical “highs” are the same ones activated by kindness and compassion.
  • It can reduce pain. Dopamine , serotonin, and endogenous opioids are released by kind behavior.
  • It enhances the release of oxytocin in interactions where two or more people are engaged in kindness behavior. In turn, bonds between those who are kind to one another are strengthened.
  • It enhances both physical and mental health. Many physical ailments are either precipitated by or aggravated by stress. Kindness reduces stress.

Kindness is a habit of giving—of wanting to lift burdens from others or to merely provide a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on. It humanizes us; it lifts us spiritually. And it is good for us.

Interestingly, the simple witnessing of others being kind can release the same “feel good” chemicals that engaging in an act of kindness can produce. However, one can yield a greater benefit by being the performer of acts of kindness. Look for opportunities to be kind and count your acts of kindness. You will experience the rewards almost immediately. One act of small kindness can release an enormous chain of positive events. The miracle of kindness is that it is contagious and something we should all want to pass on and spread to many others.

Fredrickson, B. L., Cohn, M. A., Coffey, K. A., Pek, J., & Finkel, S. M. (2008). Open hearts build lives: Positive emotions, induced through loving-kindness meditation, build consequential personal resources. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 95 , 1045–1062. DOI: 10.1037/a0013262

Hamilton, D. R. (2010). Why Kindness is Good for You. United Kingdom: Hay House.

Luks, A., & Payne, P. (2001). The Healing Power of Doing Good. Lincoln, NE: iUniverse.com, Inc.

Kerr, S. L., O’Donovan, A., & Pepping, C. A. (2015). Can gratitude and kindness interventions enhance well-being in a clinical sample? Journal of Happiness Studies, 16, 17-36. DOI: 10.1007/s10902-013-9492-1

Otake, K., Shimai, S., Tanaka-Matsumi, J., Otsui, K., & Fredrickson, B. L. (2006). Happy people become happier through kindness: A counting kindnesses intervention. Journal of Happiness Studies, 7, 361-375. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10902-005-3650-z

Shoba Sreenivasan, Ph.D., and Linda E. Weinberger, Ph.D.

Shoba Sreenivasan, Ph.D., and Linda E. Weinberger, Ph.D. , are psychology professors at the Keck School of Medicine at USC.

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Acts of Kindness in Society Essay (Critical Writing)

Introduction.

The problem of people who lost their homes is acute in the US. Devastating hurricanes and state economic policy usually cause it. Therefore, many educated people used to a civilized lifestyle are left homeless. The lockdown caused by COVID-19 exacerbated this situation, leaving thousands of people without work and livelihoods. Therefore, I plan to participate as a volunteer in the distribution of hot meals, when the opportunity presents itself. This experience will help me understand what is happening in our society and enrich me emotionally, inspiring other actions not aimed at satisfying my ego. For example, I can also buy “hanging coffee” to brighten up the day for someone every day.

We live in a society where selfishness is not condemned and sometimes even encouraged. It is because, in this way, corporations stimulate our consumeristic behavior to gain more profits. However, Aristotle (2000) notes that the kindness shown to others is a virtue, proving that our mental state is in balance. Moreover, according to the philosopher, acts of kindness enrich a person and fill their life with meaning, and therefore are valuable (Aristotle, 2000). Here is a good example: a friend of mine once spontaneously began to take care of homeless pets. Initially, she wrote a report on this topic, in the preparation of which she visited the shelter and was upset to tears about how depressing the life of animals is.

Therefore, she began to buy medicine for animals from the shelter and then took several kittens ‘to overexposure.’ She was happy to do so even though she needed to treat these cute animals from various diseases like tetter, fleas, or injuries. Then she gave them – clean and healthy – ‘to good hands.’ It seems to me that this example illustrates the person’s desire for good deeds, regardless of whether they bring immediate benefits.

According to John Stuart Mill’s Utilitarian theory, actions must be evaluated in the context of their consequences, with even the most brutal actions being justified. I’m afraid I have to disagree with this because some things cannot be changed after we learn about the consequences. For example, in most countries, the death penalty has long been abolished because death cannot be canceled after new circumstances of the case unexpectedly open, and the criminal is excused.

Aristotle. (2000). Nicomachean ethics. (Irwin, T., Trans., 2nd ed.). Hackett Publishing Company.

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Kindness Essay

Kindness essay is a reflection on the idea of kindness, which is an act of selflessness. Because kindness doesn’t come with the expectation of receiving anything in return, it is a great way to show your appreciation for what you have received in life.

Kindness is always an excellent choice to make in any situation. When someone feels bad or down, the kindness shown can make a person feel more supported and loved. It is an action that anyone can do.

essay on an act of kindness

Importance of Kindness Essay

Kindness is a simple yet powerful gesture. It can positively impact someone’s life, and the ripple effect is just as powerful. In the academic community, kindness is thought to be an attitude that influences achievement among people.

Kindness is a form of love and compassion and one that needs to spread throughout the world. It allows people to see the best in others, encouraging them to be their best selves. Allowing kindness to exist for those around us is beneficial for them and ourselves.

It is our responsibility as human beings to be kind to other people. We can be considerate and compassionate towards other people to live in peace and love. Kindness is a virtue, and it is one of the essential things in life. It shows other people that you care about them and takes away some of the pain and suffering that they may be feeling. It can also help heal others, and everyone should always try to think about how their actions will affect others before taking them.

Kindness is vital in every single person’s life. It makes the world a better place and can make someone feel loved. With the help of kindness, you can start your good deeds to make the world a better place.

You can find more essays similar to the kindness essay on BYJU’S website. Also, explore a wide range of exciting kids’ learning resources on the website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kindness.

Kindness is a simple gesture that can positively impact someone’s life. It also helps people be compassionate and considerate towards others.

Why is kindness important?

Kindness is important because it is our responsibility to be kind to others. This helps people to live in peace and love. As a virtue, kindness is one of the essential things in life. It helps us be empathetic towards people and extend our hands to support them.

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Essay on Kindness Is Compassion in Action

Students are often asked to write an essay on Kindness Is Compassion in Action in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Kindness Is Compassion in Action

Understanding kindness.

Kindness is the act of being considerate, generous, and friendly to others. It involves showing empathy towards others, which means understanding their feelings.

Kindness and Compassion

Kindness is compassion in action. Compassion means feeling for others, and when we act on that feeling, we show kindness.

The Power of Kindness

Kindness can change lives. A simple act of kindness can make someone’s day better. It can also inspire others to be kind.

Kindness is important. It makes us human and brings happiness to others. Let’s practice kindness every day.

250 Words Essay on Kindness Is Compassion in Action

Introduction.

Kindness is a universal language that transcends cultural, social, and geographical barriers. It is the embodiment of compassion in action, a tangible manifestation of empathy and understanding towards fellow beings.

Kindness: A Humanistic Approach

Kindness is not just an act, but a lifestyle that fosters an environment of positivity and mutual respect. It is the willingness to place someone else’s needs before your own, without expecting anything in return. In essence, kindness is compassion in action, a testament to our shared humanity.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

A single act of kindness can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to act similarly. This domino effect can influence the collective consciousness of a community, promoting a culture of empathy and compassion.

Kindness and Mental Health

Kindness also has a profound impact on mental health. It stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that induces feelings of happiness and well-being. By being kind, we not only uplift others but also enhance our own emotional health.

In a world often marred by conflict and division, kindness serves as a beacon of hope. It is compassion in action, a simple yet powerful force that can bridge divides and foster unity. As college students, we have the responsibility to cultivate this virtue, shaping a more compassionate and understanding world.

500 Words Essay on Kindness Is Compassion in Action

Kindness is a virtue that transcends cultural, religious, and social boundaries, universally recognized as a fundamental trait of humanity. It is often considered as compassion in action, a tangible manifestation of empathy and understanding towards others.

Kindness is an act stemming from a deep-seated sense of compassion and empathy towards fellow beings. It is not merely an act of benevolence but an expression of understanding someone else’s situation and extending help without any expectation of reciprocation. Kindness is a selfless act, often driven by a genuine desire to alleviate another’s suffering or discomfort.

Kindness and Compassion: An Inextricable Link

Compassion is an emotional response to the suffering of others, coupled with a desire to alleviate it. Kindness, in essence, is the action driven by this compassionate impulse. When we see someone in distress, our compassionate instincts trigger a reaction to reach out and help, and this act of reaching out is kindness. Hence, kindness is compassion in action.

The Practical Implications of Kindness

The practical implications of kindness are far-reaching and profound. Kindness fosters a sense of community and mutual respect among individuals. It promotes a culture of cooperation and understanding, making our societies more harmonious and peaceful. Moreover, research has shown that acts of kindness have a positive impact on the mental and physical health of the giver, as well as the receiver.

Kindness in the Modern World

In the fast-paced, competitive world we live in, kindness often takes a backseat. The focus on individual success and achievement can sometimes make us oblivious to the needs and struggles of others. However, it is in these challenging times that kindness becomes even more critical. It serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of our lives.

Kindness has the power to transform lives and societies. A single act of kindness can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to act kindly as well. It can break barriers of hostility and mistrust, fostering a sense of unity and mutual respect. In a world often divided by differences, kindness serves as a bridge, reminding us of our shared human experience.

In conclusion, kindness is more than just a moral virtue; it is compassion in action. It is a testament to our capacity to empathize with others and our desire to alleviate their suffering. In a world that often emphasizes individual achievement and success, kindness reminds us of the importance of community, cooperation, and mutual respect. It is a powerful force that can transform lives and societies, fostering a sense of unity and shared humanity. As such, it is incumbent upon us to cultivate and promote kindness in our lives and our societies.

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essay on an act of kindness

Good Leadership Is an Act of Kindness

"Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind." —Henry James

As a professor of business administration in the Organizational Behavior Unit at the Harvard Business School, I teach courses in leadership in the MBA and Executive Education programs. With the COVID-19 pandemic transforming our lives at every level, a growing number of students and former students have sought my advice about how to lead in a time of great uncertainty and unprecedented employee stress.

The stories these executives tell attest to the fact that these are the most difficult times in memory for many, if not most people. Parents struggle to balance the demands of remote work and homeschooling. Employees who live alone strain to stay focused while isolated from loved ones and traditional social supports. In between Zoom meetings, caretakers exhaust themselves attending to a special needs child or ailing parent. Everyone frets over their physical and financial well-being. Who among us isn't anxious, stressed out, and off our game right now?

From bolstering remote collaboration to scheduling meetings upon meetings, the business press and bloggers are buzzing with guidance about ways to sustain employee engagement and productivity in the chaos of a pandemic. Unfortunately, most Management 101 advice does not recognize that in times like these, the manager's toolkit must expand in ways we haven’t seen before.

I believe that a powerful, fundamental leadership strategy is being largely overlooked. It is, in fact, the most innately human one: Be kind.

LEADING IN TIMES OF UNCERTAINTY

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  • Keep Your Weary Workers Engaged and Motivated

According to a recent Gallup survey , less than half of employees (45 percent) feel strongly that their employer cares about their well-being. Many realize that this needs to change. Practicing active, habitual kindness can transform the remote workplace and it can start today. A little reassurance, compassionate listening, a conscious effort to validate people's fear and confusion all go a long way.

Employees and managers alike face unprecedented obstacles every day. In March and early April, as COVID-19 spread worldwide, a study by Mind Share Partners in partnership with Qualtrics and SAP found that 42 percent of respondents said their mental health had declined since the outbreak. Six months later, people's anxiety, confusion, and despair are topics of near-daily reports in the news and on social media. Even if gestures of kindness and compassion were not woven into business as usual before the pandemic, they are essential now and going forward.

Unfortunately, the notion of kindness in the form of the simplest words and gestures often gets lost when CEOs and managers are in perpetual crisis management mode, struggling with layoffs, remote work technology, market woes, and a range of other frustrating disruptions.

While confronting these challenges requires time and unique skill sets, kindness does not. The value and rewards of kindness have been touted by leaders as legendary as King Solomon and Desmond Tutu to latter-day executives like General Motors CEO Mary Barra, known for her inclusive, employee-centric style.

Kindness is teachable. Ritchie Davidson of the University of Wisconsin has compared practicing kindness and compassion to weight training : "People can actually build up their compassion 'muscle' and respond to others' suffering with care and a desire to help," he said. Great leaders attest that it is not a sign of weakness or relinquishing authority to be consistently kind and to offer encouragement and show genuine interest in employees' mental well-being in punishing times. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, at once forceful and compassionate, remarked that one of the criticisms she's faced over the years is that "I'm not aggressive enough or assertive enough, or maybe somehow, because I'm empathetic, it means I'm weak. I totally rebel against that. I refuse to believe that you cannot be both compassionate and strong."

We've seen how stress can alter behavior. It's jarring for managers to see normally calm, high-functioning employees show signs of confusion and burnout. Teams are failing to meet deadlines and executives tell me they see an increase in petty conflicts and a parallel pandemic of short tempers, exposed nerves, and increased sensitivity to perceived slights.

It's important to remember that kindness is contagious as well as calming. And it is healing: the Mayo Clinic urges us to "intentionally set a goal to be kinder to others . Express sincerely felt kindness to a co-worker." Science has confirmed what we observe in our daily interactions. According to the Mayo Clinic, acts of kindness activate the part of our brain that makes us feel pleasure and “releases a hormone called oxytocin that helps modulate social interactions and emotion. Being kind is good for our own and our employees' mental health." And that translates to improved morale and performance.

Here's what Psychology Today had to say about kind bosses: "They have been shown to increase morale, decrease absenteeism and retain employees longer. Kind bosses may even prolong the lives of their employees by decreasing their stress levels which improves cardiovascular health."

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." —Philo of Alexandria

The pandemic is not a time for a stern, iron-fisted approach to leadership and management. The virus's vast fallout demands a kinder, gentler approach. What can CEOs and managers do to infuse their leadership with kindness and empathy? Here are straightforward, effective ways to practice kindness as a matter of course:

"I hear you." Really listen. Be fully present and don't judge. Encourage employees' questions and concerns. Listen actively—no side glances at the phone. "When someone shares that they're struggling, you won't always know what to say or do," write Kelly Greenwood and Natasha Krol in Harvard Business Review . "What's most important is to make space to hear how your team members are truly doing and to be compassionate. They may not want to share much detail, which is completely fine. Knowing that they can is what matters."

""Are you okay?" Show a willingness to provide comfort and monitor for signs of distress such as social withdrawal and poor performance. Know when to refer an employee to professionals, suggest Lesley Hammer and Lindsey Alley in The Conversation .

""What can we do to help?" It may be as simple as validating an employee's personal challenges during the pandemic. But being kind might also involve taking an active role in offering mental health resources or creating a virtual support group or sounding board.

""How are you managing these days?" According to the MIT Sloan Management Review , “some companies are creating deeper insights into the specific situations their workforces face by surveying home workers.” What they’ve found is that being single and working under quarantine alone carries a very different set of stresses than being a member of a working family with young children. For employees experiencing the pangs of social isolation, one company launched daily virtual coffee breaks. For those working while caring for children, leaders must be sensitive to issues of exhaustion and the difficulty of working during pre-pandemic office hours. "Leadership signaling that working unorthodox hours is okay could make a real difference to their stress levels," according to the article.

""I'm here for you." Let your employees know routinely that you are there for them when they need to share concerns or simply require a sympathetic, nonjudgmental ear. Consider making yourself available at times outside work hours; these are not normal times.

""I know you're doing the best you can." This statement is, with few exceptions, true. In scores of first-person accounts and on social media, people are reporting they are working harder than they did pre-COVID. This makes perfect sense; as layoffs and furloughs skyrocket, employees live in fear of losing their jobs. In times of crisis, bosses must alter their expectations. As Bryce Covert wrote in a New York Times op-ed , "Keeping output steady while maintaining our physical and mental health just cannot be done. We have to work less, and employers have to get on board." Public schools are closed in a majority of states, most child care services have ceased operations, and a majority of couples with school-age children both have jobs. "These working parents are logging on after the kids are asleep and answering emails before they wake. Bosses must acknowledge how incredibly hard this has been." But as Covert noted, "far too often, employers are acting as if little has changed. Their employees are responding to their expectations by working themselves even harder. Enough."

""Thank you." Say it with sincerity and say it often.

Along with empathy and emotional intelligence, kindness is one of the most essential soft skills for good leadership. But in these times, it might be the most crucial one. To paraphrase Henry David Thoreau, kindness is an investment that never fails.

About the authors

Boris Groysberg is the Richard P. Chapman Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School. Susan Seligson, an independent researcher, contributed to this article.

Are your managers demonstrating and modeling kindness with team members?

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Acts of Kindness: Narrative Writing

by Purdue Global Academic Success Center and Writing Center · Published December 13, 2013 · Updated December 9, 2013

Acts of Kindness

David Werner

December 1, 2013

Floyd, Lloyd, Elwood, Woodrow, and David are not historical figures, except in their native Ithaca, N.Y.; but David was my father the others my Uncles – all part of the generation who saved the world in WWII.

They were all just kids, some underage, when they volunteered for the Army Air Corp. and piloted everything from the B-17 and B-29 to the P-47 and P-51.  They flew more than 25 missions a piece as pilots and co-pilots; which far exceeded the Air Corp. standards.  The mortality rates of pilots jumped after just thirteen missions and it was almost a given that pilots flying more than 25 missions would not return.

In my book they were heroes and, as a kid, I remember hearing some of the stories.  Being a kid I especially liked the ones about them “pissing in their pants” as anti-aircraft fire was going off all around them.  It was funny to them too, since all five survived, but they never glamorized the war or thought of themselves as heroes.  There was a job to be done and they did it.

After the war they did what that generation was expected to do.  They came home, married, started families, and worked to support their families.  Even in peacetime, there was a job to be done and they did it.

My father, as many of that generation, was not openly emotional or affectionate.  He loved us and would do anything for his family, but in his own very quiet and humble way.

The only time I ever saw him break down was when my mother died.  He loved her so much and was so paralyzed by grief he could not function.  I was thirteen at the time, and the oldest, so it fell upon me make all of the funeral arrangements and to help in any way I could for the next month or so.  This time, there was a job to be done so I did it.

My father was capable of many acts of sacrifice and kindness.  Of course he never told me about them but I still hear stories about him today.

About a month ago I was standing in line at the pharmacy to pick up a prescription.  When it was my turn, I simply said “Pickup for Werner.”

This very old woman standing next to me turned and asked, “Are you Blanche’s boy?”  I told her I was and she told me how close she had been to my parents and that my father was the greatest man who ever lived.

By now, the rest of the crowd in line edged a bit closer to eavesdrop.

She went on to tell stories about my mother and father and finally asked me how I felt about my grandmother.

My grandmother was somewhat of a strict and overbearing woman who could cause a great deal of misery if she wanted to.

Once this woman, Helen, was satisfied she was not going to offend me, she almost yelled out in the store, “That Ethel could be a bitch!  Do you know your grandfather had to stop for a shot and a beer before he could go home and face her?”

After that there was no stopping her and she had certainly piqued my curiosity.  I, and the entire audience in the store, learned that one of my Uncles had fathered a number of illegitimate children both in Europe and here after the war, I apparently had numerous first cousins I was never aware of, my grandfather had a long term affair supposedly because of my grandmother, and my family history was filled with more than a few black sheep.

Now everyone, including the pharmacist, was waiting to hear what was coming next.

Helen became quiet and more introspective.  “You know,” she began, “Ethel (my mother’s mother) became very ill a few years after your mother died.”

I did remember she had a massive heart attack on the day my mother died and she was unable to attend the funeral.

“I think it was after you left for college, your father didn’t think he could care for her anymore so he was going to put her in a nursing home.”

This part I did not remember.  My grandmother was never in a nursing home.

“I remember that day,” Helen continued, “The day she was going in.  I helped your Dad get her into the car and saw them drive off.  Do you know what your father did?  He drove in through the gates of the nursing home.  He drove right past the entrance, continued around the circle, and came right back home.  He cared for Ethel for the rest of her life.”

Similar to many stories about my father, I had never heard this one before.

Growing up he would always tell us, “You are what you do, not what you say.”  He defined himself by that.  There was always a job to be done and he did it.

This is the beginning of a series of essays using the nine writing patterns of narrative , exemplification , compare/contrast , description , definition , process analysis , cause/effect , classification and division , and argumentation/persuasion .

Narrative, or narration , “wraps” the issue or thesis around a character or story.  “Acts of Kindness” is an example.  I could have written a well-researched essay about various and random acts of kindness; but which would have the desired emotional impact on an audience?  The truth is, I don’t know but I do know the audience is the final authority in terms of our work.

The writing pattern of description uses words to stimulate the senses and have the reader paint a mental picture of the scene.  Exemplification uses specific and detailed examples to clarify the thesis or argument.  Process analysis shows the audience how things work or how to do something.

To explain similarities and differences, we use the writing pattern of compare and contrast .  We spend most of our lives just trying to figure things out; and that’s when we use cause and effect analysis .  Definition gives new meaning to something misunderstood or previously unappreciated.  We use classification and division to group some things together and divide others into smaller categories.  And finally, we use argumentation and persuasion to find common ground with an opponent.

This Effective Writing Podcast discusses the role of Audience and Purpose in writing.

For the writer, these are the tools in our toolkit. For the reader, again the final authority, we can better serve them.  I ask my students at the beginning of each term to give us their definition of “ Effective Communication .”  They say things such as, “To better express myself,” “two people talking,” or “arguing back-and-forth.”

The real definition of Effective Communication is simply the art of being understood .

It’s not the audience’s job to figure out what we’re trying to “say.”  It’s our job to be understood.  And when we write an essay or story such as “Acts of Kindness,” it is not our job to show reality.  For most of us, the reality of our daily lives can be somewhat unpleasant.  No, it’s the writer’s job to show an interpretation of reality.  Let’s show the world what it can be like .

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An Act of Kindness

Updated 23 April 2021

Subject Emotions ,  Identity

Downloads 73

Category Life ,  Sociology

Topic Community ,  Gender ,  Kindness

In my culture, the wisdom for a growing child is to be noble and supportive

In my culture, the wisdom for a growing child is to be noble and supportive when interacting with others in society, regardless of whether they are peers, families, or outsiders. An example that is often used is when an elderly person occupies a space or a bus with all seats filled. The younger person is required to give up his or her seat to make room for the elder.

Showing empathy, hospitality, and compassion

I have shown empathy, hospitality, and compassion to people of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, or any other cause. However, it is usually difficult to extend the same to a stranger who may be rude or condescending. While traveling to a nearby town to visit my aunt, I sat next to a boy in his late teenage years. Before boarding the bus, he had mistreated the ticketing agent who tried to help him find a suitable seat. He spent the rest of the time talking loudly on the phone. He would reply rudely to anyone who tried to tell him to lower his voice. I initiated a conversation on the bus but he was an unwilling participant and I kept quiet for the rest of the journey.

A surprising encounter

A few hours after alighting, I visited a restaurant where I found the boy with whom I had traveled. I noticed that he appeared distressed and quieter than I would have imagined based on his earlier behavior. I went and sat next to him and inquired if he was fine. He hardly wanted to talk but I chose to stay and find out if he needed help. I helped him to order a meal and paid for it. After having our lunch, he opened up and told me that his mother had been sick and that he had received the news of her death a few hours after our journey. He had visited the town in search of his father, whom he had hardly known. His parents had been separated for the greater part of his life. He was stranded because his mother had spent most of her savings on treatment and after her death, he had no choice but to look for his father in a bid to re-establish a relationship. I offered to escort him to his father's office, since he was a first-time visitor to the town.

Reasoning for Choosing the Specific Act

I witnessed the teenager, who had been a stranger, engaging in acts of rudeness with people around him regardless of their age or gender. The behavior had been against my core beliefs. Nevertheless, I offered to be kind and hospitable throughout our interaction because I had been taught to do so with everyone. Moreover, I had been in tough situations before in which I wished for someone to understand my frustration. Therefore, I thought it better to always assume that a person may act in unacceptable manners as a way to shut people out or as a protective mechanism against emotional attachments.

The Reaction of the Recipient

The teenager had been rude to me in the first instance of our interaction. Offering to pay for his lunch may have expressed my willingness to listen to him and offer assistance. This act may have encouraged him to open up to me and talk about the cause of his sadness. I helped him meet his father, who welcomed him. We exchanged contact information and have been friends since then.

My Experience with the Stranger

In extending an act of kindness to a stranger, I found ways in which I could help him deal with the loss of one of his parents and reconnect with the other. The knowledge that I had brought calmness to the boy was satisfactory emotionally. The act of assisting a stranger gave me a friend with whom I have been close long after the incident despite the nature of our first interaction. The importance of kindness is the psychological impact on the recipient. Their perception about people is changed from negativity towards optimism and positive interactions (Louvau 9).

It is the obligation of every individual to be virtuous and assistive to those around him or her. The reason for this is that different people may have problems that cause their hostility or lack of communication. Positive interaction helps a person who is going through bad situations to see a better side of humanity and have hope that their issues will be resolved. It may prevent a person with suicidal thoughts from proceeding with the act and may comfort one with the loss of a loved one. An act of kindness may be infectious, causing the person to adopt virtues of being friendly and open to interaction with others in the society. There are no negative consequences associated with it. Therefore, such acts should be encouraged within every society in order to develop better interpersonal relationships with people regardless of their relationships.

Works Cited

Louvau, Chaplain Charlie. Beyond Random Acts of Kindness. Xlibris Corporation, 2010.

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Home / Essay Samples / Life / Kindness / The Power of Small Acts: Exploring the Importance of Kindness

The Power of Small Acts: Exploring the Importance of Kindness

  • Category: Life
  • Topic: Empathy , Gratitude , Kindness

Pages: 2 (703 words)

  • Downloads: -->

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