When I talk with anyone in the service industry (waitstaff, customer service, etc.) or caregivers (nurses, teachers, therapists, etc.) I find myself exceptionally kind and giving. For the most part this is a great thing – most people want to be treated with kindness and if you provide a generous gratuity, then that is appreciated – smiles all round. However, sometimes, people just want to do their job and aren’t in the mood for niceties or developing a relationship (assuming repeat customer). This is difficult for me as I don’t set any expectations on the other person. I give and provide kindness because that is who I am. Sometimes, though, I seem to really try hard to be nice, even if the other person hasn’t acknowledged or recognized it. So, this led me to wondering, why am I this way? There are times when people just want to do their thing, and it is important recognize that. I think I am this way for a couple reasons. One reason is that I have been treated unkindly as a child, and so when someone is nice to me, I really appreciate it. Another reason is that I am very empathetic, and I try to be helpful when someone is struggling. Another is that I have been around family that has been unkind to others, and I try to do the opposite. All of this is good and part of being a kind soul, but I just need to make sure I take care of myself first. I don’t need to please everyone – I need to just be mindful and always remember my intentions – am I being kind to the other person and am I being kind to myself.
