Be Kind

Wednesday, August 20

There’s been a big movement in recent years to “be kind to yourself.”

And I don’t disagree. Shaming and demeaning yourself don’t lead anywhere good.

But being kind to yourself doesn’t mean lowering your standards. It doesn’t mean lying to yourself. It doesn’t mean avoiding responsibility for the way you show up. Unfortunately, that’s what it’s become for too many people - less effort, less accountability, less growth.

Think about the best coach or boss you’ve ever had. They were kind. They cared for you. They encouraged you. But they also held you to high standards. They demanded more than you thought you had - oftentimes resulting in you realizing you were stronger and more capable than you thought you were.

That’s the same role you should play for yourself. Be your own best coach. Encourage yourself, but challenge yourself. Care for yourself, but expect more of yourself. Don’t let “being kind” become an excuse for settling.

You’re capable of more. And sometimes the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to raise the standard.
​
​
Keep chopping wood. 🪵🪓

-Kevin