Celebrating World Kindness Day
I’m looking forward to tomorrow, not only because it’s the start of the weekend but to note November 13th is World Kindness Day, an observance introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a coalition of non-governmental organizations. While not universally acclaimed, World Kindness Day is celebrated to promote the importance of being kind to each other. With Thanksgiving coming up, it’s also a great time to reflect on what we’re grateful for and ways we can positively impact those around us.
Spreading kindness
I recently reminded myself of the importance of spreading kindness by handwriting thank-you notes to a group of Resigility employees who had a particularly challenging week. I wanted this team to know that they were valued and their hard work appreciated since I believe we get positive energy from people who recognize our efforts. I came to this conclusion after observing a former boss start each staff meeting by thanking those who had gone above and beyond the previous week. You could see a tangible change in body language and an increase in smiles and head nods among those she acknowledged, lifting everyone’s spirits. I’ve kept that lesson in the back of my mind and continually aspire to emulate such kindness and positivity on an ongoing basis.
Energizing great performance
Another inspiration to remember that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life came to me after reading the bestseller, “The Way We’re Working Isn’t Working,” by Tony Schwartz, founder and CEO of The Energy Project. I agree with his premise that we often neglect the four core pillars that energize great performance: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. It’s too easy in today’s busy work world to forget that these factors affect our health, emotions, sense of personal value and, ultimately, performance. We all need to know that our work matters and our efforts are appreciated in order to perform at our best – yet all too often we forget to demonstrate gratitude and kindness to each other.
Random acts of kindness
Taking a moment to recognize the hard work of those around you is exactly the type of random act of kindness we need to celebrate World Kindness Day, not just tomorrow but throughout the year. It takes so little to put a smile on someone’s face – and your own – creating the energy we all need to thrive.
On the eve of World Kindness Day, I’d like to offer a public thank you to each member of our Resigility team, all of whom work very hard to support clients in transforming strategy into action and building organizational resilience and agility. And to our clients, we are thankful for your many acts of kindness that create a powerful and positive difference in our lives.
