We often believe in the survival of the fittest — and to some extent, that’s true. But Darwin’s human evolution visualizes a new thought. We cannot ignore the nature of human beings. The feelings of love, respect, and empathy are qualities explicit to us; kindness is one of them. But the question remains: why is kindness important when we have everything we want?
Today is all about lavishness and power. We are so caught up in our worlds, busy in our routines. So why should we still practice kindness? Humans are social animals—intensely compassionate and caring. Sympathy inspires us to look out for others. Studies reveal kindness as a key factor of satisfaction and stability. It is about caring for others and doing things to make lives better.
Reasons Why Kindness Is Important
1. Kindness Determines Your Well-being
It is really true what goes around comes around. Whatever you offer comes back to you. It applies to kindness too. When you are kind to anyone, your serotonin levels get high. You feel good. Your body releases such chemicals to advance your health.
Many researchers believe that our well-being depends on kindness. Unprompted acts of generosity are more effective in this area. Research by APA PsycNet explained different behaviors driven by emotions like trust and compassion. They linked them to the achievement of better physical and mental health. Kindness and empathy connect us with people we cherish.
2. Fabulous Emotional Return for Minimal Effort
Kindness works like a secret key to a happier life. Once we master it, it has a way of conferring on us a dose of happiness that not many things can. This is because we are all programmed to always look out for our neighbors deep down, regardless of our differences.
We know that our best chance for happiness is when others around us are happy, too. Kindness has such a way of making people happy that it offers a remarkable emotional return for minimal effort on our part. It is an excellent way to find our values without questioning ourselves too much.
Life can get challenging, and when this happens, it is refreshing to know that we can always hope to get a few acts of kindness here and there to get back on our feet and get back in touch with our core values. In short, tiny, casual acts of kindness can bring about so much happiness and fulfillment. Through several personal experiences, many will confirm that this is true.
3. Kindness Nurtures Our Self-Esteem
Our little acts of kindness can make someone’s day. When you spread kindness, it grows on others, too. It generates happy feelings for you. You start to feel good about yourself. Compassion enhances your self-esteem. You stay optimistic and cheerful.
Showing kindness towards your family and friends is natural, but bringing a smile to a stranger’s face and feeling the magic it does to your heart is something else. Kindness provides an insightful effect on your self-esteem, particularly in teens.
4. Kindness is Contagious
Consider this if you are still wondering. Why is kindness important? It’s no secret that negativity often spreads faster than kindness. There is a thing about the hearts of human beings: it is so easy to corrupt, and this corruption spreads faster than anyone or anything.
One of the few positive traits competent of this kind of speedy spread is kindness. This is why we all owe it to ourselves and to our fellow people to spread as much kindness as possible so that others, and even the upcoming generation, can follow it. Every day, you have the chance to make the world better by being kinder than you were yesterday.
5. Kindness Makes Us Consider Others’ Viewpoints
Nowadays, life moves really fast. There is so much hustle and bustle and action that many people find it frustrating. We lash out at others unreasonably. We show no patience. But the philosophy of kindness slows down our reckless response and temper. Kindness makes us reflect. We tend to think about others and respect their opinions.
We consider people’s thoughts and understanding of their behavior. By doing so, we comprehend their nature. Their experiences help us to understand them better. Kindness inspires empathy in us. Apart from that, it motivates us to be good to ourselves too.
6. Kindness Builds Bridges
Kindness is essential because it has a way of touching the human heart as nothing can. This is why even the most obstinate heart, under the most stressful conditions, can succumb and be lightened by a small act of kindness. Kindness is a bridge that can connect people from different backgrounds, races, and cultures.
Kindness starts in the home, with parents infusing a sense of empathy in their children. It starts in schools by having an open dialogue about kindness to help students understand that they can make the world a better place. No gifts or compliments or apologies can touch the act as some act of genuine kindness.
Read More: 9 Benefits of Connecting With Your Higher Self
7. Reduce Your Stress
The modern world may have brought us comfort and speed, but it stole our real, cherished moments. We have no tolerance. It brings more stress to us. Medical science has confirmed that high-stress levels are dangerous for health. When you are ruthless, your blood pressure naturally hikes. It takes a heavy toll on your body, raising cholesterol levels.
Our stress hormones train us for fight-or-flight situations. If we stress more, this has adverse effects on the mind and body. Kindness helps to lower stress levels and maintain a relaxed and calm state. It uplifts your mood. Therefore, take a deep breath and smile often.
8. Kindness is Self-Medication
Being good to others is praiseworthy. But what about you? How many of us demean ourselves? It is unhealthy. Self-consideration is crucial. Kindness endorses self-love. You learn to appreciate yourself. There is some difference between selfishness and self-consideration. Kind people try to care and work to better themselves.
Kind people love others and themselves as well. They unite with their souls. You should find happiness in yourself to share. Fill your cup and then share it with other people. Self-criticism is vital but under check.
Those who stumble in self-pity are exposed to depression. Kindness allows us to trust ourselves. With a positive mindset, you can help others too. Your self-love fights your misery. Therefore, being kind is a type of self-medication.
9. Kindness Promotes Humanity
Courtesy in action is inspiring. A positive mindset always advantages people. When people help each other in need, it always brings them closer. Courtesy earns your trust. Eventually, you restore faith in humanity. Supporting others in hard times is a rewarding act.
Kindness endorses moral values, growth, and humanity among us. We can connect with others. Ostad Elahi, an Iranian philosopher, says, “Kindness towards others permeates their hearts and wins them over.” We build society. It is our vital responsibility to promote social ethics and work to bring peace and tranquility through kindness.
Conclusion
As per the wise words of Mark Twain, “Kindness is a language the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” Kindness is like a renewable source of power. Spread it as much as you can. Remember that we rise by lifting others. Kindness is like spiritual food for us. It is the current need of time. It unites us with people. We, as humans, need kindness to live.
The world gravely needs compassion. Amidst this chaos, everyone looks for love and support. We must find our lost spirits to bring happiness back into our lives. Kindness offers us more. We should never forget that kindness is two-way traffic. We get what we give. Therefore, kindness is an act of God. So consider these reasons why kindness is important.
