(Article Updated February 20th 2024)
Kindness is a powerful and universal language that connects people across different cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs. It’s a quality that not only has a positive impact on the lives of those who receive it but also brings a deep sense of satisfaction and joy to those who offer it.
It can be seen as a bridge between individuals, creating moments of understanding and compassion in a world that often feels divided.
To delve deeper into what makes someone truly kind, let’s explore 11 characteristics commonly found in individuals who embody this beautiful trait.
1. They are good listeners
A kind person is a good listener and takes an interest in what others have to say. They are interested in the other person’s thoughts, feelings, and opinions on different topics of conversation without inserting their own opinion too often or talking excessively about themselves.
Being a good listener helps people feel validated and understood which can be healing for them (and the person who is listening).
In a world where everyone talks about themselves, it’s refreshing to be able to tune into someone else for a while. We all have our own problems and challenges that we are dealing with in life – so by taking this time to really listen and understand others, you can show them they matter.
2. They never judge others, and take the time to get to know them
Kind people always take the time to ask questions, learn about who someone is and what they care about.
They don’t judge others based on their appearance or assumptions of their character- but rather look deeper into who that person truly is inside. Being kind means you need to let go of your own judgments.
If you need extra support and tools from a licensed therapist, I recommend MMS's sponsor, BetterHelp, an online therapy platform that is both flexible and affordable. Get started today and take 10% off of your first month of therapy.
3. They are gentle and patient with those who need help
Kind people are gentle and patient with those who need help. They have the ability to be present in any situation and offer a listening ear, warm smile, or an encouraging word when needed. Kindness can come from anyone- not just friends, but also strangers on the street.
Helping others is one of the most rewarding things someone can do in life. When you put yourself in someone else’s shoes, they feel less alone and it can be a rewarding experience for both parties involved.
Many of us go through hard times in our lives- some more so than others- but being kind to others who are struggling is sometimes all that we need to give them.
4. They give without expecting anything in return
Kind people give without expecting anything in return. They have a giving heart and always want to be useful.
Kindness is not just about being helpful, but also intent on making the world better for others- even if it means putting themselves last sometimes or going out of their way to help someone when they need it most.
5. They respect the feelings and needs of others
Kind people always respect the feelings and needs of others. They are careful not to offend or hurt anyone. They know that sometimes being kind means just listening without giving advice or judging someone’s situation.
It is important to remember kindness comes in many forms- it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to do something big or extravagant but rather just be there for someone when they need it most.
6. They try to always be honest
Kind people always tell the truth. They don’t have to say things in a harsh way, but they do need to be truthful when necessary.
Honesty is important on many levels- it’s not just about saying what you believe or feel strongly about, but also being upfront with someone who has hurt your feelings without judging them or putting the blame on them.
It’s important that you always tell the truth because being honest from a place of love can make someone feel understood and validated which is healing for their heart (and your own).
Kind people are truthful not just in words but also by answering questions about themselves when asked, without hesitating to reveal personal information.
7. They are open to showing love
Kind people always show love and affection. They want the person they care about, or anyone for that matter, to know how much they really mean to them- in words and actions.
Kindness is not just limited within a relationship with someone but also extends out into the world towards strangers as well.
Kind people, while they are open to showing love and affection, also feel loved themselves. They have the ability to give without expecting anything in return; because when you’re being kind from a place of self-love then your kindness will never run out.
8. They know not to lie
They are honest and upfront about who they are, what their feelings are, and what their intentions with someone else might be.
Lying is hurtful because it’s a betrayal of trust in your relationship or friendship–it can also create false expectations that lead to disappointment over time as well. Kindness starts with honesty and truthfulness.
It’s important to take care of your own feelings as well when being kind to others, which is why it’s so important for kind people not only tell the truth but also be honest about their intentions in a relationship or friendship.
9. They are grateful in life
Kindness is not just about doing good things for others, but it’s also often expressed by being thankful.
Being kind all starts with your own gratitude and appreciation because without that kindness can’t thrive. Kind people recognize the blessings they have in life every single day–they may be little or big-but always take time to be thankful for what they have.
It’s important that you are grateful because gratitude helps heal your heart and the hearts of others too.
10. They know how to forgive others
Kindness doesn’t always come easy–it takes work and effort to be kind in all the moments of your life.
Forgiveness is an important part of kindness because it’s something that many people struggle with, which can lead to a lot of negativity both for oneself as well as others. It’s hard to let go of something you’re holding onto- but the more kind you are, the easier it is to do.
Kindness starts with forgiveness and letting go because if there’s anything in your life that was done wrong or said out of anger then being kind means knowing when to let that go–forgiveness can be a powerful healing force for both.
11. They tend to be happier
Kind happiness is not just an accident–it’s the result of kindness. Kindness doesn’t always come easy, but it does leave you feeling good about yourself, and that in turn brings out a kinder side for others too.
It takes work to be kind every single day- which means sometimes we’re going to feel like we’re not doing enough, or that it’s too difficult. But the more kind you are–the more happiness will thrive.
Final Thoughts
We want you to think about what these 11 characteristics of kind people might mean for your own life. Are there any that stand out in particular? If so, consider how they can be applied to your daily routine or habits and see if it makes a difference over time. Kindness is contagious!