Are You Strong Enough to Be Kind?
Why is it that we need to be right? To prove our point. To say I told you so. To make others feel lesser. Whether it’s in a serious disagreement or a casual conversation, there’s always room for differing opinions. This is okay and also a great opportunity for growth. But often times differing opinions are not the issue: the reactions and attitudes that come after are what matter most.
Think about your attitude and feelings in these situations. When you are right and you want to prove it, how do you feel? Competitive, powerful, stubborn? How do you feel if someone proves you wrong? Attacked, hurt, useless, insecure, unintelligent? Notice that all those feelings are not necessarily positive. On both ends of the conversation, no one feels good or satisfied.
We live in a world full of facts, opinions, places, and things: it seems as if in almost any conversation, someone could be right or wrong. Whether it’s in the workplace or at home with your children or spouse, these types of conversations will arise.
Would you rather have your coworkers feel hurt and insecure or motivated and supported? Would you rather act out of love toward your spouse or prove them wrong every chance you get? It’s in our nature to want others to feel good. To help others see their potential. To act out of love. This means supporting, motivating, loving and showing respect, even when you may or may not be right.
Instead of being right, let it go. Stand up for what you believe and let it go. Let others share and take pride in their opinions, respect their right to speak, and support them regardless if you agree or not. I challenge you to be kind instead. Be a servant leader who serves first and leads second. Add value to those around you and be okay with not needing to prove your point.
Much like being a servant leader, being kind is a constant practice. It’s having the courage to stand up for what you believe in, but the kindness to see things another way.
The next time you feel the need to be right, take the harder path, listen to understand, and be kind instead.
