Kindness has never been more important. As our CEO, Jaimie Clayton, shared in a recent WWJ 950 radio interview, "Being nice is really underrated, and it isn't just about what you do for someone else." Random Acts of Kindness Week is a perfect reminder that small gestures can have a big impact—not just on others, but on ourselves as well. 

Being Kind to Others  

There are countless ways to be kind to those around us. "It doesn't have to be something monetary," our CEO explained. "Maybe at work you recognize someone for their good work… If you want to do something monetary, maybe you pay for someone's coffee." Kindness can be as simple as offering a genuine compliment, helping a neighbor, or volunteering. "The concept of giving back is a kindness," she noted, emphasizing that acts like donating or participating in a charity can make a lasting difference. 

Being Kind to Yourself  

Kindness isn’t just about how we treat others—it also involves how we treat ourselves. "We are not good at being kind to ourselves," our CEO pointed out. Many of us work long hours, push ourselves too hard, and neglect self-care. Taking time to rest, practicing mindfulness, and prioritizing wellness are all ways to show ourselves the same compassion we extend to others. "Our emotional health and our mental health are intricately tied to our physical health," making self-kindness essential to overall well-being. 

The Benefits of Kindness  

Beyond brightening someone else’s day, kindness has profound effects on our own well-being. "Being nice reduces anxiety. It increases empathy. It increases personal connection," our CEO shared. Acts of kindness can boost our mood, lower stress, and foster a sense of community. Whether we are helping others or taking time for self-care, kindness is a simple yet powerful way to improve both our own lives and the world around us. 

As we celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Week, let’s take a moment to reflect: What does kindness mean to you? Whether through small gestures or meaningful commitments, each act of kindness has the power to make a difference. 

Listen to the full interview here: