It’s no secret that today’s society isn’t always kind to us. In the age of social media, there are more and more people speaking negative and harsh opinions behind false personas. This spewing of negativity isn’t always healthy, and we can get down on ourselves if we put stock in the negativity that people hiding behind anonymous accounts are sending out. In your recovery, it’s important to be able to deal with negativity in a positive, healthy way. You don’t want to let every small, negative action from others impact you in large ways. We want to help you focus on the important things in your recovery, not just the negative that society puts out.
Kindness Matters
We’ve all seen the “kindness matters” bumper stickers. What can be frustrating is when that mini-van that preaches kindness cuts you off then slams on their brakes. If you don’t have the right tools, this may end up ruining your day. It’s important to remember that the kindness we give to ourselves matters, too. We are deserving of kindness and respect, even when others do not give it to us. If this is the case, it’s up to us to make up for that lack of kindness and respect by being better to ourselves.
How to Practice Kindness With Strangers
You may have the urge to confront the stranger who has done you wrong, but this might not always be the best course of action. What you should be doing to practice kindness to strangers who anger you is to first take a big, deep breath. Don’t act on the impulse to engage. Breathe deeply and remind yourself not to take their rude actions personally. They have nothing to do with you. Instead, repeat a positive mantra of “it’s not about me.” Breathe and remind yourself of this when you need to practice kindness with strangers who aren’t so kind to you.
How to Practice Kindness With People Online or via Texts
Just like you may want to confront the stranger who angered you, you may also want to fight back online when someone disrespects you by saying rude things. It’s important to remember that people online can be cruel and ruthless because they are hiding behind their keyboard. Instead of attacking them back, which is probably what you want to do, take a step back. Closeout from that text or social media and put down your phone. Don’t allow yourself to fall into technology’s trap. You can always put the phone down and walk away.
Arbor Behavioral Healthcare is here to help you practice kindness in a world that is often cruel. Kindness matters always, but especially in your recovery. Call us today at 844-413-2690. We can’t wait to speak with you!