Is it true that kindness is contagious?
Or, is showing kindness a waste of time?
It sometimes seems that our kind acts and words are in vain. However, although kindness sometimes takes some time to bear fruit, it is always worth it.
Kindness Is Contagious: True Or False
Almost any behavior is capable of spreading and affecting the behavior of others, good or bad.
Just as people often bring out the worst in others by influencing them with their bad habits, the opposite is also, mercifully, true.
Remember that kindness is not weakness, and you’ll never regret choosing to speak with kindness.
Kindness is contagious!
Incredible Discovery – Kindness Is Contagious
Can we back up our claim with science? The good news is that yes, we can.
Not Just The Theme Of A Feel-Good Documentary
Kindness Is Contagious is a critically-acclaimed, feel-good documentary film directed by David Gaz. It’s narrated by Catherine Ryan Hyde, the best-selling author of the book, Pay It Forward. This book was also the basis for the movie of the same name.
Many other best-selling authors have written about the topic of generosity. But they are not the only ones educating people on the virtues of showing kindness.
The Advantages Of Kindness Are Backed Up By Science
Much scientific research has been done to examine whether kindness is contagious. Within this research, there has been a big focus on empathy in general.
Kindness has benefits that you may not expect. Statistics have shown that kind people live longer and have healthier relationships than those who are unkind.
Nice Guys Finish First!
You have probably heard the adage ‘nice guys finish last.’
This means that people who are nice and pleasant will ‘lose’ against people who aren’t in competitive spaces. This is simply not true and is a negative way of looking at the world.
Popular Adage Has Led To Negative Perceptions
It is this negative perception that has sent out the wrong message and perpetuated the long-held belief that being kind is not worthwhile.
The reality is that being nice does pay off. It might not be immediately apparent, but over time, those who are kind and good to others are rewarded with intangible benefits such as stronger relationships, a better reputation, and more opportunities.
Moreover, when you do good deeds for others, they will be inspired to do the same. This is the central tenet of the idea behind paying it forward.
Kindness Is Innate
Our ancient ancestors would never have been able to survive if they had not worked together as a team. They learned that showing kindness to one another was the best way to not only survive, but thrive, as a species.
Can Kindness Be Learned?
Kindness can be taught and learned. This is true of all behavioral patterns. Just as happiness is a habit, so is kindness, if you allow it to be.
No one ever forgets how to be kind. However, sometimes people lose sight of its importance. Engage in acts of kindness, and your family, friends, and neighbors will see this and want to reciprocate. It’s a positive feedback loop that makes everyone feel good.
Why Are Some People UNkind?
When people are unkind, for seemingly no reason, remember this: there is always a reason. Just because you are not aware of it does not mean that they are acting negatively towards you for no reason.
Most often, unkind acts or words are born out of resentment, fear, or emotional pain. Try to keep this in mind when you come across such behavior. These are often the very people who need your kindness the most.
Human kindness can resolve even the most bitter conflicts. There are many ways to be kind. All it takes is for one side to make the first move.
Final Thoughts
Kindness is contagious, and what a beautiful thing that is to know!
While most contagious things are best avoided, kindness should be embraced. When kindness takes hold and spreads, the world becomes a much happier place.
