Is Kindness the Key to Your Growth? A Lifeline For Beginners
- Mindset and Habits
- January 19, 2025
- byCharlotte
Have you ever wondered if being kind is undervalued nowadays? Some might think kindness is “soft” or even unnecessary, especially when life seems to reward competition more than empathy or connection. Kindness can sometimes feel out of place—like it belongs to a simpler, slower time.
But I’d argue the opposite: kindness is not only relevant; it’s one of the most underrated strengths we have. Why? Because it builds bridges where walls exist. It transforms individuals and entire communities.
kindness has always been a cornerstone of my relationships. In my experience, practicing kindness—both toward myself and others—has opened doors I didn’t even know were there. It can mean the difference between a supportive community that flourishes and one that crumbles under judgment, comparison, or competition.
Why Kindness Is NOT Overrated
What Kindness Really Is (and What It’s Not)

Here’s where things often get misunderstood: people mix up kindness with niceness, and they’re not the same at all. This confusion tends to water down the real power of kindness, making it seem like something superficial, almost boring when in reality, it’s anything but. Let’s break it down:
- Niceness is all about keeping things pleasant and conflict-free. It’s the “smile and nod” approach—being agreeable for the sake of avoiding tension or maintaining appearances. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with being nice, it can sometimes feel shallow or even disingenuous. It’s the kind of behavior where you say “everything’s fine” when it’s really not or agree to something just to keep the peace, even if it doesn’t sit right with you.
- Kindness, on the other hand, comes from a much deeper place. It’s grounded in empathy, genuine care, and the courage to do what’s right—even when it’s not easy. Kindness isn’t pretending or pleasing; it’s when you truly see others, understand their needs, and choose to respond with compassion. It’s when you offer a helping hand, even when it’s inconvenient, or have an honest conversation when it’s uncomfortable because you care enough to show up authentically.
The key difference here is that niceness is often about appearances, while kindness is about substance. When you’re nice, you might be prioritizing comfort—yours or someone else’s. But when you’re kind, you’re prioritizing connection and authenticity. You’re choosing to show up as your real self, offering real support, not just a polite smile or empty words.
And this distinction matters so much in beginners’ communities or spaces where people are starting something new. Think about it: when you’re learning something for the first time, you don’t need people to simply “be nice” to you. You need them to be kind—to be patient, understanding, and genuinely supportive, even when your progress is slow. Kindness is what creates safe spaces where people feel encouraged to try, fail, and try again. It’s what helps beginners feel seen, valued, and capable of growing. And that, of course, is dear to The Bold Beginner’s community.
So, let’s stop lumping kindness and niceness together. They’re not interchangeable, and frankly, one is a lot more powerful than the other.
Kindness Is The Boldest Move You Can Make
In a world that often seems to glorify ambition, hustle, and individualism above all else, kindness can sometimes feel like a weakness. Even worse, it’s sometimes called “boring”. I’ve even once heard someone say to me after I used the word “kind” to describe a person: “Basically they have no personality”. So, let’s challenge that notion because the reality is this: kindness isn’t “soft” or unimportant; it’s one of the boldest and most impactful choices you can make. Here’s why:
1. A Bold Act of Strength
Let’s be honest—being kind isn’t always easy. Most of the time, it takes immense courage to go down that path. It also takes real emotional strength to extend compassion in moments when it’s inconvenient, uncomfortable, or when you don’t feel like it. Choosing kindness means resisting the pull of self-interest and rising above negativity, and that’s anything but weak.
2. Building Trust That Lasts
A small, sincere act of kindness—whether it’s offering a genuine compliment or simply taking the time to listen—can create connections that are deeply meaningful. These moments of genuine care are the foundation of trust, and trust is what sustains relationships over time.
3. Empathy Sparks Innovation
When kindness sets the tone, it creates a sense of safety where people feel free to share ideas, take risks, and grow together. You foster an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and encouraged to contribute their best.
Choosing to lead with kindness is an act of quiet rebellion. It’s a statement that you value connection over ego, empathy over self-interest, and collaboration over competition, and it’s powerful.
There have been times when I’ve wanted to give up on kindness—especially in the business world, which can feel like a real-life shark tank. One day, a mentor shared this adage by Miyamoto Musashi: “It’s better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war.” At first, I didn’t quite get it, but they explained how it emphasizes the need to be strong and prepared, even — or especially — when you choose kindness. In fact, choosing kindness is far from being naive or defenseless—it takes immense strength to stand firm and not break under the weight of harsh or unkind people and situations. Staying kind means facing reality head-on and moving through it with resilience and grace.

Kindness Is Crucial To a Beginner’s Journey
Now, let’s bring this closer to home—what does kindness mean for someone who’s stepping into unfamiliar territory? It certainly is the safety net that catches you when things feel uncertain or overwhelming. Those first steps are intimidating, and acts of kindness can be the difference between giving up and growing…
1. It Eases the Fear of Failure
Taking that first step as a beginner is often riddled with the fear of failure—of making mistakes, looking out of place, or simply not being good enough. It can feel paralyzing to put yourself out there, fully aware of your vulnerability. But when you’re surrounded by genuine kindness, it transforms the experience. True kindness creates a space where you feel welcomed, seen and accepted by a community that doesn’t make you feel lesser for not being on their level. That kind of environment doesn’t just reassure you—it empowers you to forget your fears and know that it’s okay to learn and grow at your own pace.
2. It Creates Space for Growth
Kindness transforms a learning environment into a safe space, where mistakes aren’t something to be ashamed of but rather stepping stones toward growth. In these spaces, beginners feel free to try, fail, and try again without fear of judgment.
That’s the power of kindness. It makes you feel like you belong, even when you’re still figuring things out. It’s the bridge between fear and courage, doubt and confidence. And the beauty of it? Kindness is free, but its impact is priceless!
Kindness Helps You, Too!
Here’s a fascinating truth about kindness: while it undeniably uplifts others, it also works wonders for you. Yes, being kind is a win-win situation!
1. The Feel-Good Factor
Ever notice how you feel lighter, happier, and just plain good after doing something kind? That’s not a coincidence—acts of kindness release “happy hormones” like oxytocin and serotonin. These natural mood boosters reduce stress, elevate your sense of well-being, and even have physical health benefits. It’s science-backed self-care. Who doesn’t want that ?
2. A Deeper Sense of Purpose
Helping others gives you a connection to something bigger than yourself. It shifts your focus outward, creating a stronger sense of meaning in your day-to-day life. Mentoring someone, offering support… all these small moments of generosity add layers of purpose to your life.
3. Balanced Kindness
Let’s not forget—kindness doesn’t mean sacrificing yourself or letting others take advantage of your good nature. Real kindness thrives when paired with healthy boundaries. By setting limits, you ensure that your kindness comes from a place of authenticity, not obligation, and you protect your own emotional well-being in the process.
It’s also about what you receive in return: happiness, fulfillment, and balance. When you choose to act with compassion, you reinforce your own values, deepen your empathy, and strengthen your emotional resilience.
Women’s Communities Need Kindness

Women’s spaces in particular benefit hugely from kindness. Unfortunately, we’re often pitted against each other, whether it’s through societal expectations or subtle competition. But when women lead with kindness, amazing things happen:
Collaboration Over Rivalry
Kindness dismantles the competitive narratives and instead fosters a culture of collaboration, where mutual support replaces rivalry. It is so much more empowering to lift each other up rather than tearing each other down!
The Courage to Be Vulnerable
Kindness creates safety, and in safe spaces, vulnerability flourishes. When women feel encouraged to share both their struggles and triumphs, the result is deeper connections and a stronger sense of community. These are the moments where real, lasting bonds are formed. And by the way, this is exactly what The Bold Beginner is all about, so let’s build this awesome community of female bold beginners, based on kindness and empathy!
For example, in women’s networking groups, mentorship is a common thread. A little kindness—like offering guidance or celebrating someone else’s success—can spark opportunities for growth and lasting friendships.
Kindness Is Not Overrated—It’s Underrated
So, is kindness overrated? Not even close. In fact, it’s a much-needed superpower. It’s one of the most transformative and underappreciated strengths we have.
I’m sure you’ve already noticed how, when someone extends kindness, it often inspires others to do the same. It’s contagious in the best way possible. A simple act of kindness can set off a chain reaction. Suddenly, a beginner feels motivated to keep going. A connection deepens into a friendship. A supportive environment becomes a thriving one…
So, start small. Be kind in ways that feel meaningful to you. Celebrate someone else’s success, check in on a friend, or offer a genuine word of encouragement to a stranger. Over time, it adds up to something extraordinary—a world where kindness is the rule, not the exception. And when that happens, we all win.
Start today, and watch how your kindness transforms the world around you—and within you!
What are your thoughts? Have you seen the ripple effects of kindness in your own life or community? I’d love to hear about it!
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