In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of kindness with waves of positive change—both in our personal lives and in the workplace. Something as simple as writing notes of encouragement or affirmations can uplift mental well-being, strengthen relationships, and foster a culture of positivity. Whether it’s a thoughtful word to a colleague or a heartfelt message to someone we care about, these small gestures have the power to inspire, connect, encourage and transform.
In this article we give some examples and ideas for how we can all use kindness as a catalyst for meaningful change in both life and business. We expand on some of those examples in the podcast. We start with the principle of choosing how we show up. We also cover "How to Be a Good Neighbor" with the podcast and free download!
Choose How to Show Up
Create Habits of Kindness
One of my favorite traditions is giving to others on my birthday, which falls just a couple of days before Christmas. Whether it’s sending heartfelt cards, baking and sharing trays of baklava, or sending thoughtful text messages, these simple acts of kindness shift my focus away from my own concerns. Instead, they allow me to extend care and joy to others, creating a meaningful connection that feels far more rewarding than anything I could receive.
This wasn’t always a habit for me. However, my dear mother always ensured I felt celebrated on my birthday, even during the bustling holiday season. Her thoughtful efforts were a reminder that feeling seen and valued is a gift everyone deserves, yet not everyone receives. Life changes—such as the loss of relationships, relocation, job transitions, or health challenges—can leave many without someone to celebrate their special moments. This perspective inspired me to cultivate a habit of reaching out to others, especially those who might feel forgotten or overlooked.
Consistently choosing to show kindness is transformative, not only for the recipient but also for the giver. When we make it a practice to care for others, it fosters healing, joy, and connection on both sides. While these acts of kindness are offered with no expectation of return, the ripple effects often exceed anything we imagine. The warmth and positivity created through these moments have a way of multiplying, reminding us of the power we hold to uplift and inspire simply by showing we care. FREE Download: "How Can You Be a Good Neighbor?"
Power of Reaching Out
When I was finishing my student teaching, I moved back in with my parents and commuted over an hour each day to a high school where I worked with their choral music program. It was a challenging time of long days and even longer drives. One night, after returning home from another full day, I received an unexpected phone call from a student stranded at the downtown bus station in our city.
At that time, there was no training or protocol for handling such situations—no manual on what to do when a student calls late at night in need of help. My heart sank as I considered the options. The last thing she needed was to be turned over to the authorities; what she needed was someone to show up for her. I drove to pick her up and brought her to my parent’s home for the night, ensuring she had a safe place to stay. The next morning, I sent her on her way, torn between relief and concern. She didn’t share much about her circumstances, but I could sense the weight she was carrying.
Years later, I received a message from this student that revealed how much that simple act of kindness had meant to her.
“You touched my heart so much when I first met you. Especially when I got off that bus and you came to my rescue, and even though we haven’t kept in touch through all those years, you have been a big part of my life. The way you touched my heart and made me feel like I was special. The special words of encouragement back then that made me feel loved at a time I needed it most. You opened your heart and gave it to me so unconditionally at a time when I wanted to give up on life because of all the hurt and abuse I was going through.”
That student, who once felt like giving up, grew into a remarkable leader. She is now the Vice President of a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children who face abuse, just as she once did. Her journey is a powerful reminder that even a single act of kindness—a moment of reaching out—can ripple through someone’s life in ways we may never anticipate. By simply showing up for her that night, I unknowingly became a source of hope, proof that kindness can ignite resilience and inspire others to pass it forward.
The Domino Effect for Impact
The tattoo was of a sparrow. The name Donny was in one of the wings and Wind Beneath My Wings was etched below it. The tattoo was on the shoulder of Donny’s sister. She had just turned twenty-one and wanted to do this in remembrance of her brother.
Almost ten years earlier, her brother Donny was in a fatal car accident. I got the call from his mother, asking me to play and sing at his funeral. Donny was the same age as one of my sons and I was hit with the sobering reality that it could have been me making that call instead of her. The song requested was “Wind Beneath My Wings.” This was a song that I had taught her son in the fourth grade.
I had worked with the fourth and sixth grades—one hundred fifty kids at a time, writing a thirty-minute musical for each. This was because the district had cut music from the curriculum and I stepped in to instruct music instead of sitting through long parent volunteer meetings.
That day of Donny’s celebration of life, more than any other, I came to realize that we are all making an impact. We may never know the extent or find out until much later. Donny’s mom had found the lyrics to “Wind Beneath My Wings” in Donny’s special box, under his bed. I had no idea a song and performance in the fourth grade could affect a young boy enough to hold on to those lyrics for years in a special box. It’s a good reminder that whether a teacher, a parent, a coach, a boss or friend, our lives are constantly touching others in some way. (excerpt taken from Stuck is Not a Four-Letter Word)
Application
Kindness is contagious, and it’s a choice that transcends age or circumstances—it’s never too early or too late to embrace it. When faced with feelings of resentment, bitterness, or even the temptation for revenge, choosing kindness can bring healing and transformation, even in relationships we may feel are beyond repair. The power of kindness can penetrate even the hardest of hearts—sometimes, that hardened heart is our own.
While we may understand the benefits of kindness, its ability to become a habit, and its ripple effect on those around us, the act of being kind ultimately remains a conscious decision. This year, I encourage both you and myself to actively choose kindness. It’s a simple but profound step that can change not only our lives but also the lives of others in ways we might never imagine.
Additional Resources
Stuck is Not a Four Letter Word: Seven Steps to Getting Un-Stuck by Deborah Johnson
The Impact of Forgiving Yourself First – article & podcast
Empathy and Strategy: Leading with Heart into the New Year – article & podcast
Post on Kindness by Lorie Honey McCombie (mentioned in podcast
- about Greg & Deb
GREG joins DEBORAH as a co-host on Women at Halftime Podcast once a month.
GREG JOHNSON is a former professional athlete, a triple A relief-pitcher with the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) He also has years of experience in sales and as an R.I.A. (Registered Investment Advisor), owning his own business. He & Deb met on a blind date and have been married over 40 years.
Something as simple as writing notes of encouragement or affirmations can uplift mental well-being, strengthen relationships, and foster a culture of positivity.
deborah johnson
Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author
If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning
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