We all like to think we’re good people. There’s likely room for improvement in some areas—sure, you could always donate a little more during the holidays—but in the grand scheme of things, we’re doing pretty well for society. But…are you really?
Truly kind-hearted people seem to live their lives in another dimension. They don’t expect anything in return for their gestures. They light up a room whenever they enter. And most importantly, they’re genuine in their pleasantries. They’re like Disney characters come to life, and we’ve finally landed on what separates them from the herd!
They Follow Up With People
Did you get home okay? How are you feeling after that breakup? Did you want to talk about anything? Kind people make it their mission to follow up on their loved ones. They recognize that we’re all going through tough times, and sometimes all it takes is one person checking in to make the day a little brighter.
Kind-hearted people also reach out when the going’s good! The smallest gestures, like “This made me think of you” or “I sent you a little something in the mail,” strengthen relationships. They remind their loved ones that they also have their best interests at heart, and they do it without thinking.
They Don’t Expect Anything in Return
It’s easy to help someone move when you expect the same of them. It’s also easy to donate during the holidays when it makes you feel good. Sure, these gestures are kind, but they’re also transactional. If you expect anything in return, even if it’s an internal pat on the back, you’re not really doing it out of the goodness of your heart.
Kind people, on the other hand, pay compliments without care. They spring for the person behind them in the drive-thru. They don’t wait to donate to their favorite charities or volunteer in soup kitchens. They give freely.
The Devil’s in the Details
Kind people take note of the little things. Oh, you mentioned that you had a favorite childhood book? Guess what your birthday present is! You’ve never been to the opera? Look who bought you tickets! You’re still triggered by a childhood insult? They’ll never bring it up again, even as a “joke.”
The little things don’t seem like much at first glance. Oh, a small joke here or a tiny comment there—but people who pay attention know how the smallest thing can make the biggest impact, good or bad.
Can You Turn the Tide?
No one said you had to 180 your personality! If you want to adopt kindness, it’s all about building habits in a sustainable way. Push yourself out of your comfort zone; schedule a friend date with someone, pay for someone’s order, or just give someone a heartfelt compliment. The more you practice small gestures, the more they become second nature. You never know, you might just wake up one day to birds singing your name and wildlife taking food right out of your hand.
