Defining Kindness

Kindness is defined as a type of behavior marked by acts of generosity, consideration, or concern for others, without expecting praise or reward.

Although kindness has been negatively stigmatized or associated with being naive or weak, kindness requires courage and strength! Kindness is a valuable interpersonal skill and is the cornerstone to successful relationships and opportunities in our lives (e.g., friendships, marriages, networking, job or college applications).

There are many ways to practice kindness such as being present friendly, considerate, and genuine. Other ways of practicing kindness (despite a busy day or schedule) is to be present (e.g., without distractions, actively making time), celebrating others in moments of their success (a text or sending a nice card or gift) actively sharing your resources, and having courage to give truthful feedback in a considerate manner.