True kindness isn’t weakness—it’s a force that shapes people.

You probably don’t think much about kindness at work. It feels like "table stakes," the bare minimum of being human. Yet the truth is, kindness is not common. You’ve likely felt the sting of impatience, sharp words, or dismissive tones that leave their mark long after the moment passes.

One story reminds us how powerful kindness really is. A team feared they hadn’t been the easiest client to work with. When they apologized to their vendor, she surprised them with a different perspective: “You were my favorite client. Every person on your team was kind to me. That made me want to show up as my best for you.” Her words reveal something important—kindness changes the atmosphere. It inspires others to rise higher.

Kindness doesn’t mean ignoring problems or avoiding truth. It doesn’t mean being artificial. It means showing up as your best self for others, assuming the best in them, and offering dignity even when situations are hard. Real kindness requires strength, patience, and humility.

When kindness is missing, the absence is loud. When kindness is present, it multiplies. One choice to speak gently, to encourage, or to honor someone’s effort often ripples farther than you realize.

So today, ask yourself: how can you show up with kindness? Not because it’s easy, but because it reflects strength. And when you give it freely, others are often moved to give their best in return.