We are constantly taught at a young age that kindness, compassion, and encouragement are keys to living a happy and healthy life. We are told that we should treat others the way we want to be treated. Oftentimes, we lose sight about the impact little acts of kindness can have on others. How showing a helping hand can maybe give that small boost to someone who is having a hard time and needs a pick me up.
Many studies have shown that practicing kindness (whether it is donating or random acts of kindness) have many benefits including feeling happier, relieving stress and anxiety, and feeling more fulfilled on a daily basis. In sports, kindness and compassion can go a long way to becoming a better teammate and picking up others around you when they are struggling. So how can we be more kind on a daily basis?
- Be kind to yourself: It is often stated that you can’t be there for others unless you are there for yourself first. Make sure that you are taking care of yourself first and foremost. Focus on the values that bring you joy and happiness so you can help fill up others cup when the time is needed.
- Focus on others: After you have taken the time to find internal happiness, focus on ways you can be kind to others. Constantly be aware that your actions and words can impact those around you. Make sure they always come from a good place. Putting others’ feelings at the center can make you better aware of your surroundings and teach you how to be a more supportive friend or teammate.
- Offer to help: Hold the door for a stranger. Help a friend move. Work with your buddy in the batting cage if they are struggling. Little things can go a long way to let others know that you care and want to be there for them. Don’t be afraid to take 5 or 10 minutes out of your day to lend a helping hand.
- Send a thank you note: Do you have a mentor who has inspired you and helped you along the way? Do you want to just let someone know that you care and are thinking about them? Send personalized notes. Whether it is a thank you note or just a note reaching out to see how they are doing. Just reaching out to someone can go a long way and make their day.
- Listen first: Oftentimes when those you love around you are struggling, all they want is someone there to listen. Listening can be so undervalued. Don’t just listen to respond. Give those you care about your full attention. Listen to what they’re going through and just be there to even just be a light in their darkness.
- Smile: it is something so small and simple. Smiling and saying hi to a stranger while you are walking down the street can automatically make them feel good. Bringing a smile and a positive attitude to practice or a game can change the emotions of those around you on your team.
- Practice Gratitude: This goes back to sending a thank you note, but take time to practice gratitude. Not only reflect on who or what you are grateful for, but make sure those around you know that you are grateful for them. Practicing gratitude with those you are close to won’t just fill up their cup, but it will also fill up yours.
Random acts of kindness can get lost in our day to day lives. We all get wrapped up in our crazy calendars, the stress of getting things done, and our routines. Take five seconds to be kind to those around you. You’ll bring a moment of joy not just to their life for the day, but to yours also.
