One important lesson I’ve been attempting to teach my children is the true essence of kindness. I say "attempting" because it dawned on me that in my efforts to instill kindness in them, they've been sacrificing bits of their own happiness to ensure others feel good. They’ve learned to prioritize the happiness of friends and family, often overlooking their own feelings. I watch as they accept harsh words, overstepped boundaries, and unacceptable behavior. Over time, I've seen them retreat into themselves, becoming quieter in the presence of these influences.

How often do we prioritize kindness for others at the cost of our own well-being? Let’s change that!

1. Redefine Kindness as Mutual Care

Kindness does not mean carrying the weight of others while abandoning ourselves. True kindness is rooted in balance—caring for others and honoring our own needs. This can look like saying “no” to something that doesn’t feel right, or voicing when words or actions hurt us. Teaching our children (and reminding ourselves) that kindness includes honesty, boundaries, and self-respect is one of the most loving things we can do.

2. Practice Boundaried Giving

When we give from depletion, our kindness loses its strength. When we give from a place of fullness, it becomes radiant and sustainable. A simple shift: ask yourself before saying “yes” to something, “Am I offering this with joy, or out of obligation?” If it’s the latter, pause. Choosing to give only when we are ready ensures that our kindness is genuine—not forced.

3. Model Self-Kindness Out Loud

Our children learn most by what they see. When we show ourselves compassion in small ways—taking a deep breath before reacting, speaking gently to ourselves when we make mistakes, choosing rest without guilt—we give them permission to do the same. Saying aloud, “I’m going to take a break because I need some quiet time,” or “That comment hurt, so I’m going to step back for now,” teaches them that self-kindness is not selfish—it’s essential.

✨ When we begin treating kindness as something that flows through us, not just from us, we create a culture where compassion thrives without cost. This is the kind of kindness that sustains.

🌿 Kindness should never cost us our own peace. This week, I invite you to reflect: where in your life have you been giving too much at the expense of yourself? And how can you bring balance back?

💌 Share your thoughts in the comments or reply to this email—I’d love to hear how you’re practicing kindness with both open hands and a protected heart. Together, let’s redefine what it means to live kindly.