Today marks World Kindness Day. Introduced by the World Kindness Movement in 1988, this day reminds people of the powerful influence kindness has on peers, communities, and the world at large. It inspires intentional acts of kindness and helps nurture a culture of compassion and giving to one another. On average, individuals spend around 35 hours of their week at work, so where else better to start spreading kindness and positivity than in the workplace?
Here are our top 5 ways to show kindness at work:
1.Check-in with your colleagues
We often hear the phrase “a problem shared is a problem halved” and this stems from the belief that when people share their worries with others, it can make them feel better. In fact, a recent study revealed that around 3 in 10 adults share their worries and over a third feel brighter as a result. By checking in regularly with your colleagues, you can help them feel supported and improve their overall wellbeing.
Easy Action: Try asking your colleagues “How are you?” or “How was your day?” to help show your support and encouragement.
2. Express genuine appreciation and gratitude to others
It is important to take time to recognise and show your appreciation towards your colleagues for their efforts, no matter how big or small the task is. For instance, if someone in your team has offered to help you out by printing papers for you, it is important to not let their efforts go unnoticed. A simple “Thank you” can go a long way.
Easy Action: Recognise the things other people do for you by saying ‘thank you’ more and reflecting with gratitude.
3. Lend a helping hand
If you notice that someone in your team is overwhelmed, offer your assistance, if you have the capacity to do so. This could mean helping them meet a deadline or sharing helpful resources to assist them with their tasks. Lending support to your colleagues can help strengthen relationships, enhance productivity, and overall contribute to a positive and supportive workplace culture.
Easy Action: Ask your peers if they need help, but only if you’re in a position to do it without putting too much pressure on yourself.
4. Celebrate the Success of Others
Whilst it’s important to recognise and celebrate our own achievements, it is equally as important to do the same for others. By celebrating other people’s achievements, you can create a supportive environment within the workplace where people feel valued and motivated. This also helps to create a supportive workplace environment, where team members feel comfortable to thrive and shout about their successes.
Easy Action: Tell people when you notice something they’re doing well! Don’t let the achievements of others go unnoticed.
5. Show patience and empathy
Not every day is a good day, and it is essential to understand that everyone has bad days. By offering patience and empathy, rather than judgement towards your colleagues on their bad days can help them to feel safe and supported and most importantly reduce the likelihood of conflict in the workplace. Empathy can also help strengthen emotional bonds and improve workplace relationships and help to improve the wellbeing of your colleagues.
Easy Action: At the end of each day, reflect on the things that have happened (good or bad). By acknowledging and understanding your thoughts, you can be more mindful.
Evidently, there are a multitude of ways to spread kindness at work and infect your team with positivity. Kindness is contagious, so a little effort can create a ripple effect throughout your team and organisation. The next time you go into the office, try to carry out an act of kindness towards your colleagues. In a world where you can be anything, be kind.