If you can be anything, be kind

You know me, I love a motivational and inspirational quote. I know they are not for everyone, but just a quick look through any social media website will show you that I am not the only one who appreciates these. I read recently that reading motivational quotes is kind of like having a conversation with friends- only it can be done alone and at any time you need it.

They can help me put things into perspective if my mind is racing with too many thoughts (usually due to some anxiety) and make me smile if I am feeling low. But most importantly, they have a way to help me appreciate that every day is special and we should be grateful; because before you know it, in a blink of an eye, 10 years have passed.

And after all, that is why my blog is called; Think Less* Live More

But no matter what day I have, there is one quote that comes to mind if I am feeling reflective and that is;

Now, I am not going to lie or pretend I am perfect, some days are much harder than others. The daily stresses in life, hearing about such hate in the world through media and going through any personal issues we may have can have an impact on our thoughts and reactions.

For whatever reason, we are only human and certain things on certain days can push our buttons. But days like these always lead me back to the same quote; If you can be anything, be kind. If you are anything like me, I usually reflect on my day and I find this quote helpful. It can often remind me that I have no idea what is happening for other people, what they are going through or what they are thinking.

I believe that positivity and kindness is contagious! If I am around positive people, I also feel positive. And it works both ways, if someone is being very negative it can easily cause me to think in a negative way. In my experience, it takes just one person to be positive and it can change how everyone around them feels- now that is powerful!

A good friend of mine told me that there are two types of people in this world; radiators and drains. Radiators are those people who generate warmth, those we want to be around, those we feel good with. Drains are those who literally drain us of energy and are often negative about everything. My advice- strive to be a radiator!!

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There is no better feeling than being kind to others or someone showing kindness to you. This can instantly make anyone feel happy and put a smile on their face. For me, showing kindness can come in different ways and it most certainly does not have to be big gestures. Taking the time to listen to someone, giving genuine compliments and showing you care in small ways are all acts of kindness. And for many of us, we strive to achieve this.

However, sometimes being kind needs to start with being kind to ourselves. I know so many people who are kind to others but struggle when it comes to themselves. Let’s be honest, we can be our own worst enemies at times.

Being kind to ourselves is just as important as being kind to others

 

My Top Tips for encouraging positive thinking and kindness;

Surround yourself with positive people- One word, Radiators!

Infuse yourself with positivity- Remember, how you start the morning can set the tone for the rest of the day!

Put yourself first- Take some time out to relax and do something you enjoy!

Think less*Live more- Challenge those negative thoughts and feelings of worry, enjoy life!

Focus on what you can control- worrying is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but it doesn’t get you anywhere!

Think before you speak- Is it True? Is it Helpful? Is it Inspiring? It is Necessary? Is it Kind?

Believe in yourself- Allow your inner critic to become your inner advocate; give yourself recognition, remind yourself of your good qualities!

 Count your blessings- Keep in mind that someone else is happy with a lot less than what you have!

Show yourself compassion- Don’t be so hard on yourself, forgive yourself and grow from the experience!

 Stop trying to be perfect- To be beautiful means to be yourself, you don’t need to be accepted by others, you need to accept yourself!