The Power of Intentional Kindness
Last weekend, I went to a fun BBQ restaurant with great food and live music. As soon as the singer got through the first song, I turned to my husband and whispered, “Wow! Her voice reminds me of Karen Carpenter!”
As the set went on, it was apparent the singer was unsure of herself by her stature and apologetic comments—no apologies were needed, her talent and courage to get up and sing was admirable! Unfortunately, we had movie tickets that night—so we had to head out at the band’s first break. It was a small restaurant, and the singer was sitting right at the table next to the door to exit.
Before leaving, I paused for a moment, and then decided to stop and tell this singer what I had whispered to my husband.
While it was a great compliment for any singer, her response was so unexpected—the singer lit up with excitement, squeezed my arm tight, did not let go, looked up at me, and said, “THAT is the best compliment anyone could ever give me! Hey guys! (referring to her bandmates) —did you hear what she just said?! Oh my gosh, thank you so much!”
Her reaction was so authentic and heartwarming—it made me think, how often do we take the time share kindness to people directly?
It would have been totally appropriate to just smile and exit the restaurant. But taking time to add one sentence to my departure made a big impact on both of us. She was so genuinely flattered, it was a refreshing reminder of the power of intentional kindness.
Intentional kindness is when we make an effort to ensure kind words reach the deserving person(s). It is a genuine kindness, with no strings attached. Referring back to my example, I did not want or need anything from this singer. I simply wanted her to know how talented I thought she was—it takes courage to sing in front of strangers!
So the question is, when people inspire us—do we always tell them?
Do we appreciate people for their talents, helpfulness, or positive influence, or do we shy away? There are many reasons kindness never reaches the source. Maybe we forget, moving quickly on to the next task at hand, or maybe, we do not think it really matters. It may also feel awkward to go to the source—especially if it is not someone we know very well (or at all!). But, sharing kindness is certainly is a meaningful way to break the ice and/or deepen existing relationships.
Kindness is free. Kindness is powerful. And, if we all increase our efforts to be intentionally kind—only good things can happen.
If you want an easy head start to being more intentionally kind—-I encourage you to share this article and/or tag someone who recently made a positive impact in your life. Someone who probably has no idea! One click is all it takes.
“In a world where you can be anything, be kind”
Happy sharing…
Shannon Theobald is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor / Motivational Speaker / Private Coach based in New Jersey. Shannon is passionate about helping others, and enjoys working with clients in a clinical capacity, as well as, a private coach/motivational speaker. To learn more about Shannon's professional interests and expertise, please visit her website: lemonadeandlove.com