As we approach a season of giving, I can’t help but notice the power behind this positive way of living. It provokes the question, “What if we treated each other with the same generosity and kindness all year long?” I’ll admit that many who give monetarily may not be able to afford this way of giving all the time. But consider this more of a continuous attitude and possibly a new way of living. It is my goal this year to go above and beyond for others and show much more gratitude and kindness every day. I hope you’ll join me! The world needs so much of it and it all can start with you.
Ways to show more kindness today:
1. Respect
Without respect, we miss out on one of the most critical ways to interact with each other. We live in a diverse world with daily varying opinions from our own. By being accepting of others and taking the time to listen and truly understand another’s point of view we are that much closer to showing kindness. As a former Kindergarten teacher, the golden rule was an important part of developing the inner character and it’s simple enough for even children to understand — treat others the way you want to be treated. Ask yourself, how would I want someone to treat me and begin showing those very actions today.
2. Generosity
Many who give generously experience the intrinsic benefits from giving. In turn, they find that it is actually a joy to spread kindness in the world. The best part about generosity is that it takes a selfless point of view. It’s a beautiful thing because it’s centered around what you can do for others, not about what you can gain from them. Give with your time. Give with your insights. Give with your heart and you will be sure to bless others!
3. Loyalty
Loyalty can extend far more than just those you are in a committed relationship with. You can be loyal in other relationships such as work, family, friendships and community groups as well. Loyalty is a powerful virtue that will not go unnoticed by others around you. Honor your word and follow through with your commitments. Don’t forget to be loyal to yourself first — to your own needs, emotions, health, and responsibilities! You deserve it!
4. Patience
Every day brings us new opportunities to practice patience and if we choose to embrace it, this is a skill that can be fine tuned. Not only will others benefit from you sharing a little extra patience in your daily life, but you will find yourself with a stronger peace of mind as you learn to let the little things go. Relax, you’ll get there some day. 🙂
5. Humility
Humility creates an opportunity for us to gain strength as we set aside our own identities and believe in possibilities not seen. Being humbled is where change begins within ourselves — a change that can have a strong impact on others.
6. Empathy
What would the world be like if we were able to effectively consider another’s point of view and truly empathize with their thoughts and actions? This is difficult to do especially when you have not encountered the experiences of another person and it takes a great amount of understanding. However, if we can look beyond our own ways and begin to thoughtfully consider how others view and respond to experiences, we will be more prepared to offer compassion and grace to others, making the world a better place.
7. Gratitude
Above all, let us tie gratitude into everything we do. Let us always be thankful and express gratitude for even the smallest blessings in our lives. If you’re looking for more ways to practice gratitude check out my article 5 Ways to Practice Gratitude All Year Long. I hope it inspires you to carry this attitude of gratitude in all aspects of your daily life!
I hope you’ll join me in spreading kindness and living a life full of gratitude.
Keep smiling!
“We but mirror the world. All the tendencies present in the outer world are to be found in the world of our body. If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change.” -Mahatma Gandhi
T-shirt: Le Motto // Earrings: Happiness Boutique // Purse: Kate Spade // Skirt: BCBG // Rings: Nikki Blake’s
Photo Credit // S. Weissbach Photography
I’m Molly Lawson! I live in Seattle and am an optimist, adventurer, and bold lipstick wearer. I created this space to inspire and empower women with words of encouragement known as #MollysWords and share inspiration through my personal style. I always want my readers to leave with a smile and I hope you do!
This is beyond sweet girl, I LOVE this! I know gratitude is so important but I find that when I need it the most is when it slips form my mind the quickest! Something I’m working to overcome. I’ve started a gratitude journal a few times as well but I should start that again and stick with it! PS. You look amazing WHAT is your workout routine! Lol
xo, jess
alljessedup.com
YESSSS!!! I’m all about this post. Fabulousness abounds! Thank you for having such a kind heart and for encouraging such kindness in others. The world needs more of it.
(PS – LOVE that shirt!)
Author
We all need to spread the looovveee!! Thanks for your lovely words 🙂
I have to learn to have more patience that is for sure. I love your list and your outift
Life is just Rosie
Instagram
Author
Haha, it can be difficult at times, that’s for sure!
So much yes to all of this, but especially to #3. As an adult, the value of mutual loyalty in any relationship speaks volumes. Thanks for always keeping us grounded with your kind words!
xo,
katrina
http://thedemuremuse.com
Author
I love that we’re all on the same page here 🙂 Thanks for reading lovely
You are a constant inspiration to me! I love your thoughts here. I absolutely agree that we need to take time every day to exercise these and learn to express kindness in every aspect of our life!
Stephanie // SheSawStyle.com
Author
Thank you so much Stephanie, that’s such a lovely thing to say 🙂
I love this post. It makes me sad that people forget how much kindness matters, especially when dealing with strangers.
Author
I know, we all forget sometimes but it’s so important to put your own issues aside and treat everyone with respect 🙂 Thanks for reading!
This was such a sweet post! xx Tracie
Author
Thanks Tracie!
You are the cutest!
Love this simple, graphic tee styled into a fun flirty look!
I definitely agree that showing patience can be such an act of love, and kindness!
xx, Jamie
theblonderlife.com
Author
Haha, I enjoy wearing this outfit, super comfortable too! Glad you enjoyed 🙂
loving that shirt & its adorable message. I agree with you – I think I’m going to try to do a monthly monetary donation to a charity or time donation for 2017.
xo, Maddy
http://cassidylou.com/
Author
It’s so cute, isn’t it! Ah, that’s such a good idea 🙂
What a great idea for a post! I definitely think respect is very important.
ClassToCloset
Author
So important. Glad you enjoyed the read 🙂
Great tips! I love the shirt, so cute!
http://thegirlswhobrunch.com
Author
Thanks for reading hun!
Really enjoyed this post! Patience is so important to share with others. You never know what a person can be going through and patience is a great way to show some understanding without knowing their circumstance.
Elizabeth Ann // http://www.lovedoinglife.com
Author
Exactly, everyone is going through their own battles. Thanks for reading!
You are just the sweetest person, your joy and kind spirit is so infectious! Loyalty is a huge area for me, I have had too many people I thought were “loyal” friends use me and then bully the heck out of me when they didn’t get what they wanted from me. It’s become trust issue for sure. Respect, empathy and gratitude are so important especially in today’s society! We need more people like you in this world! Also, sidebar, that skirt looks amazing on you!
Ellie
http://www.maplesyrupandteacups.blogspot.com
Author
I hope people feel inspired after reading. Gratitude is so so important. Thanks for reading Ellie!
You are always so uplifting and sweet. I love this! It is so important to be kind no matter what.
Author
Ah thanks Taylor. We all need to spread the love a little more often!
Love this post babe! Thanks for always sharing motivation and for inspiring us to become better versions of ourselves 🙂 Gratitude and empathy is super important for sure! xo, sharon
http://www.stylelullaby.com/fashion/grey-new-black/
YOU are the cutest, Molly! And this post is so perfect, especially this time of year! Love your words, as always, my friend! xoxo
gratitude is a tough because it requires us to truly see what another is experiencing. I’m guilty of having a hard time suspending my own biases. great post!
Very inspiring post Molly! I love your goal–it brings out good vibes to anyone. Though it may not be easy but if someone starts it, I can say many will follow. Love your outfit btw, so chic and stylish. xx
http://www.prettyweirdbombshell.com/shein-christmas-wishlist-20/
This this, couldn’t agree more with this, and want to share this with the world. Gratitude changes EVERYTHING!
Coming Up Roses
Loved this post lady! You’re totally right… these are virtues we should try to work on every day. Thanks for sharing and hope you have an amazing weekend! xo, LA
brownpaperdoll.com
This is the perfect post especially around this time of year we are working on being more kind. Thank you for sharing these tips
I’ll start off by saying you look absolutely gorgeous! Loyalty is a big one for me! I try to be loyal to my friends and surround myself with people who show me the same respect!
Kyla
Wanderluskyla.com
Love this message! If everyone showed more gratitude and kindness the world would be a better place!
Chelsea
Chow Down USA
Instagram
This is such a beautifully written post and love the part about respect because it’s so important!
Helen xx
https://ch1k.com/summer-christmas-gifts-for-her
Such a sweet and honest post- I hope we all can take from this <3
xx
outofofficeny.com
My dear Molly, reading your posts are always so inspiring and there’s something about them that always make me think. I’m so good at giving other people advice, but not following them myself. Reading this reminded me of some of the things I need to do for myself to be kind to myself and also to show gratitude. I do that to everyone else, but shall not and will not forget myself in the process.
Have a wonderful Christmas, sweetie!
xoxo
Thomas
http://www.thomasfalkenstedt.com/