Throwing kindness

Today the quote on my calendar read, "Throw kindness around like confetti."

Kindness is just as effective at getting outcomes, but in our society it doesn't seem as popular.

Here's an example. I needed to obtain a signature for some compliance documents, and the stakes had gotten very high if the signature wasn't obtained. We had done all that we could. Internally, though, I was upset. Anxious. Irritated.

Then I walked the dog. My mind cleared, and the answer came.

Just call. Ask. Don't raise your voice. Don't show annoyance. Just make the request.

And you know what? Everything turned out great.

We get to choose how we show up in the world and for others. We can show up in a way that helps, not harms.

Anger, rage, and hyperbole are not the only way to move through the world. Kindness and grace can secure the outcomes we want, too.

So throw it around like confetti.

When the stakes are high and you're already frustrated, what helps you clear your mind enough to choose kindness over force?