Kindness is a powerful force. It is the light we can easily switch on in the darkness in our world. Kindness is also simple; being friendly, generous, and compassionate to both ourselves and those around us.
Kindness contributes to our own wellbeing in significant ways. A Harvard University article, The healing power of kindness, indicates there is mounting evidence that practicing kindness on a consistent basis is linked to increased happiness, a greater sense of engagement as well as reduced social isolation and loneliness, which are increasingly linked to a number of negative health effects. Kindness has also been shown to reduce anxiety and even lower blood pressure.
So maybe it’s time to reinvigorate our kindness efforts to brighten someone else’s day and build our own wellbeing at the same time. February 17th is National Random Acts of Kindness Day, dedicated to promoting kindness and goodwill. We are all encouraged to do small acts that will improve someone’s day.
Some people are more comfortable showing kindness, others may need some help getting started. If you’re in the latter category, create a plan to do at least 3 acts of kindness each day for 6 weeks. Some suggestions are at the right.
You can use your One Source EAP benefit to help increase your kindness. Just call (800) 300-0628. All calls are answered 24/7/365 and both the call and the services are strictly confidential.
A Guide to Kindness
Opportunities to show kindness are all around us, if we’re looking, such as:
· Run errands for a neighbor
· Walk a friend's dog
· Leave a bigger tip for a server
· Pick up groceries for an older person
· Help with the household chores
· Make a donation to charity
· Let someone jump in line in front of you at the grocery store
· Donate blood
This is just a start. There are so many ways to be kind, including smiling at others you pass.
Let One Source EAP help you get in the kindness groove.
Employees of One Source EAP Client Companies Are Encouraged to Register for the February Seminar, “Random Acts of Kindness”
Join the February One Source EAP 30-minute seminar, “Random Acts of Kindness,” on Thursday, February 19th at 12:00 PM via Zoom. Register here
The replay of the January seminar, “Creating A Wellness Plan,” can be accessed here. Contact your HR department for the password.
Visit the seminar page on our website to review the complete Seminar Catalog. Click here to schedule a seminar for your team.