For a while now, I’ve been pushing kindness more heavily than anything else. For me, it’s a crucial part of the legacy I’m building. I want to build big businesses and buy the Jets, but I want to do it by being a good guy. I have zero interest in building the biggest building by tearing other people down. The problem is that some people see kindness as a weakness. They confuse it with being passive or being a pushover. The truth is, people who view kindness as a negative are just insecure themselves. You can only be kind if you feel that you’re coming from a place of leverage. That’s why I see kindness as a massive advantage, not a passive trait — especially if you’re a naturally “tough” person. As I go through my own life, I’m realizing more and more how kindness is such a big part of the equation. It’s not just about sales and negotiation. It’s not just about doing what you love. That’s why It breaks my heart that so many people think “nice guys finish last.” People don’t get that kindness is the best business strategy.
As someone deeply committed to the value of kindness in both personal interactions and professional endeavors, I have consistently championed its importance. I firmly believe that kindness is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage in cultivating meaningful relationships and achieving sustainable success. However, my belief in the power of kindness is tempered by a sober recognition of its occasional exploitation in the workplace. I have observed numerous instances where bosses exploit the dedication and passion of employees who genuinely love their work. These employees, driven by their passion and commitment, often go above and beyond their duties, only to be taken advantage of under the guise of kindness. This dual perspective has underscored for me the complexity of navigating kindness in a professional setting. While I remain steadfast in my belief that kindness can foster a positive work environment and enhance productivity, I am also acutely aware of the need for boundaries and fairness in how kindness is perceived and reciprocated within organizational dynamics. In essence, while kindness should be celebrated and encouraged, it is essential to ensure that it is not exploited or misconstrue...
Needed more these days than ever! Many people are nice and mistaken it for kindness. Being nice is when you are polite to people and treat people well. Being kind is when you care about people and show you care. Fun facts, the origin of NICE is from Middle English (in the sense ‘stupid’): from Old French, from Latin nescius ‘ignorant’, from nescire ‘not know’. The origin of KINDNESS is from 1300, "courtesy, noble deeds," from kind (adj.) + -ness. Meanings "kind deeds; kind feelings; quality or habit of being kind" are from late 14c. Old English kyndnes meant "nation," also "produce, an increase."
Why do so many companies, big and small keep hiring people who think that kindness is a weakness?! What is driving that trend? It is actually a superpower! The truth is you will impact more people worldwide by showing kindness than by being a tough buy. Throughout history the "Strongmen" have only created obedient followers. They have NEVER created true authentic leaders. Period. Don't listen to anyone who tells you different! Kindness gets my vote and my loyalty!
“The problem is that some people see kindness as a weakness. They confuse it with being passive or being a pushover. The truth is, people who view kindness as a negative are just insecure themselves.” SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK.
And when you make the commitment publicly then you have to hold yourself to account - a virtuous cycle. Kindness is a super power
Amen brother! Like my sweet Dad used to say "Kill them with kindness!" It is next to impossible for anyone to scream or yell at someone who simply keeps being kind to them. It disarms them, puzzles them and ultimately almost always makes them stop. Kindness is just as "contagious" as anger - but anger takes so much more energy - eventually, they have to at least pause. Meanwhile, kindness shared with others - gives ENERGY - POSITIVE ENERGY!
Kindness is part of the long game in a career. Anything else may have a short term gain, but success cannot be sustained.
Gary, I couldn't agree more. Having the peace of mind of always acting with kindness is priceless. People who see kindness as a weakness might feel they win battles every day when dealing with kind people, but to start with, it's never a battle. Never been interested in dynamics that don't offer a WIN-WIN scenario. For me, there's no point in that. Alexander, I loved the distinction you alluded to. "Being nice" can lack that touch of genuineness and does not reach the level of kindness. Honestly, life’s too short not to fully embrace kindness.
Sales Enablement-Management-Coaching | Revenue Results Driven
2wNice is not Kind. Kind is at times saying the thing a person needs to hear or having the tough conversation others avoid. Nice is not saying anything. Nice is smiling and walking away. Nice is what we tell kids to do so they behave vs listening or engaging. Nice is a problem. Kind is a solution oriented world view. A hug. A push. A choice to be viewed unfavorably for the greater good. Being kind is brave…. but not always nice. Be nice all the time… and that box will limit you. When you are kind… you always win. Goes hand in hand with its friend called fair and just.