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Something Worth SharingThe Kindness Struggle Kindness is one of my most favourite subjects, having studied and focused on it for over 8 years now. I could bore you to tears talking about its definition and the multiple physical and mental health benefits! The thing that still amazes me most about it though, is the struggle we all tend to have at receiving it. During a recent group activity, I once again observed how uncomfortable we can be when receiving praise and acknowledgement. This reminded me of the way in which strangers would be shocked when I approached them to give them a gift - as part of a random act of kindness. Their surprise was almost matched by them questioning what was expected in return. We seem to have got to a place in society whereby we feel it necessary to question the motives of a kind gesture. Surely there must be a reason that someone would give a gift or say something kind and appreciative. Being able to receive kindness - in whatever form - is uncomfortable and challenging. Have you noticed how we get offered a 20% discount by online retailers, BUT ONLY if we give our email address first? This is an example of us only receiving something when we give. Kindness can - and should be - just that, a kindness without expectation. Try it, be kind for no other reason. Equally, when you receive a simple act of kindness of any type and form, don’t struggle with it - just smile and say ‘thank you’.
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