Mindful Monday: The Power of Kindness
Yesterday at church, Pastor Chad preached a sermon on kindness—and it’s still on my mind.
He began by exploring the difference between being nice and being kind—a distinction that’s especially relevant in the South. He shared a hypothetical what would you do scenario to illustrate the point.
Being nice often means being polite, agreeable, and saying what’s socially expected. Being kind, however, is different. It’s doing what is actually good and useful. It’s seeking to raise the welfare of others, to meet a real need, and to act in a way that leaves someone better off.
If you’ve spent much time in the South, you’ve likely heard the phrase, “Bless your heart.” It sounds nice—but in many cases, it’s neither nice nor kind. (If you’re unsure what I mean, ask someone from here.)
That sermon got me thinking about what kindness looks like in a law firm—or in any professional setting. For those of us blessed to succeed in our careers, kindness isn’t just a pleasant personality trait—it’s a professional responsibility.
Kindness in our work may look like:
A partner taking time to mentor a junior associate—outside of the scope of the firm’s formal mentoring program—without expecting anything in return.
An administrator making space for a colleague’s mistake, helping them learn rather than embarrassing them.
A CMO connecting a peer with an opportunity that doesn’t benefit them personally but could change the other person’s career.
As lawyers, firm administrators, marketing directors, consultants, or any other professional, many of us can name mentors who gave generously of their time and talents—out of kindness, not obligation. Those moments often leave a lasting imprint, shaping not just careers but also the kind of professionals we strive to be.
So, I’ll leave you with this for Mindful Monday:
Where and when in your life have you experienced true kindness—kindness that profoundly impacted you?
And just as importantly, how are you paying it forward? Are you sharing some of the grace you once received by mentoring others, making meaningful connections for colleagues, or being there for someone in need—outside the scope of your job description?
Kindness, after all, has a way of echoing far beyond the moment it’s given—especially when we make it a habit to pass it on. And when kindness is exhibited genuinely and consistently, it becomes an integral part of who you are—and, in turn, shapes the culture and environment you create around you.
Choose kindness intentionally—it’s one of the most powerful investments you can make in people.