Ava Sinclair
Being kind is more than just being nice to others, it’s a lifestyle. When you’re genuinely kind, you do things not because you’re expecting something in return but to simply bring joy to others.
Kindness isn’t always grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s demonstrated in the little things we do every day. And believe it or not, there are certain behaviors that indicate a person is kinder than the average person.
So let’s delve into these behaviors and see if you’re one of those extra kind souls out there.
1) You actively listen
Listening goes beyond just hearing what someone is saying. Active listening involves fully engaging with the person who’s speaking, showing genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings.
In a world where everyone is eager to share their own opinions and stories, those who take the time to truly listen are a rare breed. But it’s this kind of behavior that sets kind people apart.
When you actively listen, you’re not just waiting for your turn to speak. You’re understanding, you’re empathizing, and most importantly, you’re validating the other person’s experiences and feelings.
This simple act of giving someone your undivided attention can mean the world to them. It shows that you care about what they have to say, that you value their perspective. It’s a sign of respect and empathy, both of which are key indicators of kindness.
So if you’re the kind of person who truly listens when others speak, congratulations! You’re showing one of the key behaviors of a kinder than average person.
2) You’re quick to forgive
Forgiveness can be tough, especially when you’ve been hurt. But I’ve learned that holding onto grudges only poisons your own peace of mind.
I remember a time when a close friend of mine made a mistake that affected me negatively. I felt hurt and betrayed. But instead of holding onto my resentment, I chose to forgive. I realized that everyone makes mistakes and that my friend was genuinely sorry.
By choosing forgiveness, I maintained our friendship and we both learned valuable lessons from the experience. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.
If you’re someone who tends to forgive easily and doesn’t hold grudges, you’re displaying a great deal of kindness. Not only are you saving yourself from unnecessary stress, but you’re also showing others that their mistakes don’t define them in your eyes. This is a behavior that truly sets kind-hearted people apart.
3) You’re generous with your time
Time is one of the most precious gifts we have. Unlike money or material possessions, once it’s gone, we can’t get it back. That’s why choosing to spend it on others is such a powerful act of kindness.
Research has shown that people who volunteer their time for the benefit of others tend to be happier and more satisfied with their lives. It’s believed that this is because helping others gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
So, if you’re someone who regularly takes time out of your day to help others – be it volunteering at a local charity, helping a friend move, or simply lending a listening ear – you’re demonstrating a high level of kindness.
By choosing to spend your valuable time on others, you’re showing them that they matter to you.
4) You express gratitude regularly
Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can positively impact both our own lives and the lives of those around us. When we express gratitude, we acknowledge the good things in our lives and show appreciation for others.
If you’re someone who regularly says “thank you” and shows appreciation for even the smallest acts of kindness, you are demonstrating a great deal of kindness yourself. This simple act can brighten someone’s day, making them feel valued and appreciated.
It’s easy to take things for granted in our fast-paced world. But those who take the time to express gratitude show a level of kindness that goes above and beyond the average person. This behavior not only makes others feel good but also contributes to your own happiness and well-being.
5) You show empathy towards others
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It requires stepping out of our own experiences and imagining what it’s like to be in someone else’s shoes.
When we show empathy, we connect with others on a deeper level. We acknowledge their struggles and their triumphs. We let them know that they’re not alone, that their feelings are valid, and that we’re there for them.
If you’re someone who often empathizes with others, you’re not just kind, you’re compassionate. You’re willing to feel with others, to bear their burdens with them. And in a world where it’s all too easy to focus solely on our own lives, this kind of selfless understanding is a true mark of kindness.
This heartfelt connection with others not only helps them feel seen and understood but also fosters meaningful relationships built on mutual respect and care.
6) You offer help without being asked
Sometimes, it’s easy to miss the signs that someone needs help. We’re all guilty of getting caught up in our own world, our own problems. But one behavior that sets kind people apart is their ability to notice when someone is struggling and offer assistance without waiting to be asked.
I recall a time when I was having a particularly tough day. Everything seemed to be going wrong and I was feeling overwhelmed. A friend noticed my stress and without saying a word, stepped in to help lighten my load. They didn’t wait for me to ask for assistance, they simply saw a need and filled it.
If you’re someone who often steps in to lend a hand even before you’re asked, you’re showing true kindness. This kind of proactive help can make a world of difference to someone who’s struggling, and it’s a clear sign that you’re kinder than the average person.
7) You treat everyone with respect
Respect is a fundamental aspect of kindness. It means acknowledging the worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their status, background, or beliefs.
If you’re someone who treats everyone – from the CEO to the janitor, from the elderly to the young, from your best friend to a stranger on the street – with equal respect, you’re displaying a deep level of kindness.
This behavior sends a powerful message: that every person matters and deserves to be treated with decency and consideration. It’s a sign that you see beyond superficial differences and value the human being behind them.
In a world where people are often judged and categorized based on appearances or status, treating everyone with respect is a clear demonstration of exceptional kindness.
8) You practice self-kindness
The most important thing to understand about kindness is that it starts with yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you can’t truly be kind to others if you’re not kind to yourself.
If you’re someone who practices self-kindness – who forgives your own mistakes, takes care of your physical and mental health, and treats yourself with the same respect and consideration you give to others – then you truly understand the essence of kindness.
Self-kindness is about acknowledging that you, too, are deserving of kindness. It’s about valuing yourself and taking care of your own needs. And when you do this, you’re not just kinder than the average person – you’re setting an example for others to follow.
