Acts of Kindness

It’s World Peace Day today!  Today encourages us to be kind to others and to teach others to be peaceful.

There are many ways to cultivate peace in the world and in our business; through our actions, our thoughts and even our language.  We often think that the only form of violence is through action, but our thoughts and words carry with them a powerful energy that has an impact on the world around us too.

There is a great book by Marshall B. Rosenberg called “Nonviolent Communication, The Language of Life” in which he shares a way of communicating to peacefully resolve personal, professional and political differences. In it he reminds us that we have a choice in every situation, and changing our language to reflect that deepens our compassion for ourselves and others.

So today, what can you do to cultivate peace in your world?  What can you commit to doing differently in your thoughts, words or actions for one day?

Here some ideas for service providers:

• Offer a free snack or drink to all your clients today
• Offer 10% or $10 off their next treatment to all who come in today
• Raise your awareness of your thoughts.  Become aware of thoughts of anger or resentment towards others and practice compassion remembering we’re all on our own journey
• Be mindful of the words we speak to others – are we putting the other person down or “in their place” to make us right?   Practice listening and understanding the other’s point of view even if we don’t agree.
• Meditate.  Be still.
• Have fun!  Do something playful – something that brings you joy!  Have a draw or contest at your office that encourages happiness.
• Donate a portion of your earnings today to a cause close to your heart.

 Be the droplet that starts the ripple in the pond.

 “A smile is the beginning of peace.” – Mother Theresa