Approach Life With Kindness…

I recently read about an interview that Oprah did with Ellen DeGeneres. Ellen said that one of the things that she’s trying to do this year is to approach life with kindness.

That resonated with me. A lot.

I’ve noticed over the past few months that when I’m cranky, or feeling crappy or negative, or impatient – that’s when I’m furthest away from myself. And usually, I can trace those crappy feelings and the manifestations of them back to thinking that I’m “less than.”

I got to thinking about “approaching life with kindness” and why that resonated with me so deeply, and it became apparent that turning to kindness could be the way back to myself.

The negative feelings and the resulting actions are just markers or sign-posts that pop up to let me know that I’m moving in a direction, or thinking thoughts that aren’t good for me.

So this last week, when I’ve noticed that I’m thinking negatively or acting crappy, I’ve immediately switched my mind-set and began being kind.

It’s made an incredible difference. I’m still exploring this concept. But so far, it’s brought me – and I’m sure those around me – a ton of peace.

How about you?

What are the things in your life that help you see that you’re not being kind to yourself – or to others? What do you do to make yourself feel better when you’re in a foul mood?

Friday Wind-Down

Take a moment. Pause. Breathe.

Take 5 minutes right now to be kind to yourself. Write down, or think about all the things you love about yourself. Then, turn that outward – what do you love about your life, your family, your friends, your house…

This weekend, be kind to yourself and a stranger.