The importance of kindness
Kindness matters, especially in the workplace.
There’s no denying that we have all been going through a challenging time, and with the winter months fast approaching its likely that demand is only going to increase. Within a busy workplace, it can often be easy for people to miss signs of stress and poor mental health in their colleagues. During these times, the importance of kindness cannot be understated in lifting morale – acts of kindness can have a positive impact on low mood and can produce greater happiness and increased energy.
Did you know, when someone is rude, 80% of recipients will lose time worrying about the rudeness and 38% reduce the quality of their work? An impulsive act of incivility can negatively impact performance, and has been shown to negatively impact patient outcomes.
Saturday 13 November is World Kindness Day, and provides a good opportunity to think about what it means to be kind to ourselves and others. There are a number of actions that you can promote to initiate and encourage kindness in the workplace. Remember that kindness is contagious; any action you perform, no matter how small, is likely to ignite kindness in others.
What can you do?
- Take the time to listen to listen to your colleagues and show that they have been heard
- Regular team meetings are good for morale, so remember to book some time for huddles and 1-2-1s. Organise a coffee morning (virtual if necessary) to get the team together
- Look out signs that someone may be overwhelmed. Are they off sick more often? Do they have trouble focusing? Is there energy lower than usual?
- Share positive messages and feedback and take the time to celebrate achievements
- Recognise colleagues who go the extra mile
It’s important to remember that we all have bad days. Days where we are more tired and our resilience is being stretched. On days like these it’s vital that we assess our behaviour and don’t forget to be kind. Think before you send an email, or criticise a colleague. You never know what they’re going through.
Don’t be afraid to challenge others if you see them exhibiting behaviours that don’t fit with our values.
Remember to be kind to yourself
It’s important not to overdo it. It’s very easy to give away all of our energy and leave nothing for ourselves – kindness has to start with you. Listen to our latest podcast where Miranda Gretton from the Communications, Marketing and Engagement Team speaks to Research Nurse, Donna Clements about self-compassion; what it is, the importance of practising it and how it can help our wellbeing.
Helpful resources