When was the last time you helped an old lady cross a street? Or smiled at a stranger and complimented a passerby? We have forgotten how much these gestures mean.
We believe in the survival of the fittest, and that is somewhat true. We put food in our mouths before giving it to others. But Darwin’s human evolution conceived a new thought. We cannot ignore the nature of man. The feelings of love, respect, and empathy are qualities specific to us. And kindness is one of them.
But the question still stands; why kindness is important when we have everything we want? Today’s all about luxury and power. We are so caught up in our worlds, busy in our routines. And we are better alone. So why should we practice kindness? What more can it do?
The answer is simple. Humans are social animals- profoundly compassionate and caring. Sympathy drives us to look out for others.
Studies reveal kindness as a factor of satisfaction and stability. It is all about caring for others and doing things to make their lives better.
So we bring to you 15 reasons why kindness is important. They will make you cherish this gesture, spread kindness everywhere, be empathetic, and show compassion to your loved ones.
15 Benefits of Kindness Why You Should Practice It More Often
Kindness is a valuable mindset and habit. It has the essence of friendliness, generosity, and compassion. It is a need of life. Here are 15 genuine reasons to prove its significance.
1. Kindness Determines Your Well-being
It is true what goes around comes around. Whatever you give comes back to you. It applies to kindness too.
When you act kind to anyone, your serotonin levels get high. You feel good. Your body releases such chemicals to boost your health.
Many researchers believe that well-being depends on kindness. Spontaneous acts of generosity are more effective in this regard.
Research by APA PsycNet in 2020 explained 201 behaviors driven by emotions like trust and compassion. They linked them to better physical and mental health. Kindness and concern connect us with people we cherish.
2. Kindness Makes Us Consider Other People’s Viewpoints
Life moves fast. There is so much hustle-bustle, many people find it frustrating. We lash out at others unnecessarily. We have no patience.
But the philosophy of kindness slows down our hundredth of a second. Kindness makes us contemplate. We think about others, respect their opinions too. We acknowledge new ideas.
We consider people’s thoughts and are considerate of their behavior. By doing so, we understand their nature. Their set of experiences help us understand them better. Kindness evolves empathy in us. Beyond that, it encourages us to be good to ourselves too.
3. Kindness Nurtures Your Self-esteem
Your little act of kindness can make anyone’s day. When you spread kindness, it grows on others. It produces happy feelings for you. You feel good about yourself.
Compassion boosts your self-esteem. You remain optimistic and cheerful. Kindness towards your family and friends is natural. Bring a smile to a stranger’s face and feel the magic it does to you! Kindness has a profound effect on your self-esteem, especially in teens.
4. Destress Your Stress
The modern world brought us comfort but stole our real, intimate moments. We possess no tolerance. It brings stress to us.
Science believes that high stress levels are dangerous for health. When you are unkind, your blood pressure naturally hikes. It takes a toll on your body, raising cortisol levels.
Our stress hormones prepare us for fight-and-flight situations. If we stress more, this leaves negative impacts on the mind and body.
Kindness works to lower stress levels and maintains a relaxed state. It elevates your mood. So take a deep breath and smile often!
Related Video – The Science of Kindness :
5. Kindness Kills Resentment
People depend on family for support in vulnerable times. Your memories are enduring. We feel happy when friends help us and appreciate our skills. We develop deep feelings for them, expecting them to stand with us every time.
It is impossible. You cannot be there for anyone all the time. Our expectations disappoint us, and we resent our friendships.
But kindness never demands anything in return. You service others for the love of it. Kind people help without any expectations of reward. It immunes them from heartbreak and unnecessary disappointments.
6. Kindness Makes You Strong
With no expectations, kindness molds your attitude. It helps you become independent. You believe in yourself, become more confident. You believe in your potential and solve your problems. You can face challenges alone. Kindness is a sign of emotional strength.
Many find it a sign of courage. Your simple act of kindness can change someone’s outlook on life. We inspire so many lives through kindness.
7. Kindness Is Self-Medication
Being good to others is commendable. But what about you? How many of us degrade ourselves? It is unhealthy. Self-consideration is vital.
Kindness promotes self-love. You learn to appreciate yourself. There is a difference between selfishness and self-consideration. Kind people care and work to better themselves.
Kind people love others and themselves too. They connect with their souls. You should find happiness in yourself to share it with others. Fill your cup and then share it with others. Self-criticism is essential but under check. Those who wallow in self-pity are vulnerable to depression.
Kindness teaches us to trust ourselves. With this positive mindset, you help others too. Your self-love fights your distress. Hence being kind is self-medication.
8. Kindness Boosts Productivity
A work environment where people encourage each other is bound to be successful. With all the positive effects it leaves on people, kindness links to better productivity in professional life.
A study displayed their results after analyzing 3500 firms with 50,000 individuals. It vouched for strong arguments why kindness is important. They observed a positive impact on the overall performance of individuals.
Hence, kind people spread positive energy around them too.
9. Kindness Blooms Relationships
Affection, warmth, generosity, and respect all relate to kindness. Relationships matter. They demand loyalty, time, and effort. You foster respect and better ties with kindness. Studies claim it is natural to harbor feelings for compassionate people.
The love you give lasts a lifetime. Kind people are more compassionate and expressive in relationships. They sustain longer relationships. In the world of breakups, they act as a warm embrace for their partner. Kindness is a significant predictor of happy couples.
Life is too short. Support your spouse, help your friends, celebrate the love you receive. It strengthens your bonds, enhances communication, and develops a connection.
10. Kindness Determines A Child’s Future
All children follow their elders. The traits you carry pass on to your younger versions. Their unconditional love and innocence demand you to be kind to them. They need to hear you say kind words to them frequently. It is vital for their character building.
Children have empathy, sympathy, and love for all. Studies claim that children learn this gesture when they are 2 years of age. Their minds respond to every little change they notice. It impacts their self-esteem.
Research reveals that kids with a healthy and happy environment show fewer signs of aggression or antisocial behavior. They can combat bullying at schools and feel confident when it comes to socializing. Hence kindness supports character development.
11. Kindness Produces Leaders
A good leader works diligently. People respect them for their compassion and empathy. Good leaders establish strong connections with their subjects. They treat them with respect, value their opinions, and understand people’s emotions.
Such qualities make them an asset to a nation. In turn, people respect them and remain loyal to them.
12. Kindness Promotes Humanity
Civility in action is inspiring. A positive mindset always benefits people. When people help each other in need, it brings them close. Courtesy earns your trust. Ultimately, you restore faith in humanity.
Supporting others in difficult times is a rewarding act.
Kindness promotes moral values, growth, and humanity among us. We connect with others. Ostad Elahi, an Eastern thinker, explains, “Kindness towards others permeates their hearts and wins them over.”
We make the society. It is our responsibility to promote social ethics and work to bring peace and serenity through kindness.
13. Kindness Builds A Better Tomorrow
Kindness is a factor of change. You acquire a different perspective.
It affects your relations. You feel confident and support others. With an influential personality, kind people set standards for people wherever they go. They motivate them.
Hence, kindness is a change agent. It gives you satisfaction and peace of mind. It brings a positive reaction through simple actions.
14. Kindness Is Contagious
Kindness is the key to the heart. It is a healthy infection. It spreads from person to person. Actions speak louder than words. Like a chain reaction, your smile can make one person support another. This wave of kindness travels miles from a simple act.
Kindness gives them a sense of purpose. It brings joy to people. And when they feel good, they try to do it more often
15. Kindness Is Essential For A Good Life
With all the positive energy they carry, kind people lead a good life. They are less prone to anxiety or stress. Hence, they live healthy lives. Their mindset keeps them moving in life. They welcome new opportunities and smile in the face of adversity.
They stay healthy and happy. Kindness drives them to lead a good life.
Why Kindness Is Important – Conclusion
Kindness is a renewable source. So spread it as much as you can! Keep in mind that we rise by lifting others.
Kindness is the food for the soul. It is the need of time. It binds us with people. We, as humans, need kindness to live life.
The world direly needs compassion. Amidst the chaos, everyone needs love and support. We need to find our lost spirits to bring happiness back in our lives. And kindness offers us more.
We should remember that kindness is a two-way process. We get what we give.
Hence, kindness is an act of God. So wonder, how much will it return to us if we promote kindness?
References
- https://doi.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fbul0000298
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/316021968_Longitudinal_relations_between_adolescents%27_self-esteem_and_prosocial_behavior_toward_strangers_friends_and_family https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2009-00697-003
- https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/06/happily-ever-after/372573/ https://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/development/behavioral/toddler-empathy/
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.586862/full
A sophomore in engineering, I’m a budding writer and an adventure enthusiast. My passion leads me on to try my hands on different things. I enjoy music, food, and good company. Making my way through life in my own ways, you’ll find me holding a camera and capturing what this world has to offer.
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