We often equate being “nice” with kindness. But what if I told you that true kindness sometimes requires us to be straightforward and clear in our communication?
When we communicate clearly, we eliminate ambiguity and confusion. This not only helps others understand our intentions but also fosters trust and respect. It’s about being honest and direct, even when the message might be difficult to hear.
Being Nice vs. Being Kind:
Being nice can sometimes mean sugarcoating the truth or avoiding tough conversations. While it may feel comfortable in the moment, it can lead to misunderstandings or unresolved issues down the line. On the other hand, being kind means prioritizing the well-being of others by providing them with the information they truly need to grow and succeed.
How to Practice Kind Communication:
1. Be Direct: Share your thoughts openly and honestly.
2. Stay Respectful: Frame your message with empathy and understanding.
3. Encourage Dialogue: Invite questions and discussions to ensure clarity.
4. Communicate Expectations: State the expectations you have in regard to tasks.
5. Hold your Team Accountable: once expectations are made clear, hold your team members accountable to that expectation.
As leaders, let’s embrace being kind with our words and not nice. It is a practiced skill and can feel uncomfortable at first. By being kind with the words we choose, we not only enhance our relationships but also create an environment where everyone can thrive.
Ways to Work Together
If you are feeling trapped in your business and not experiencing the freedom you want, here are the two ways we can work together.
One-on-One: Ready to create a business that allows you the freedom you want? We are passionate about our custom solutions and systems for your business. Our approach takes your industry, your unique disposition as a business owner, and your emerging definition of success, and we develop a unique to you plan to move you towards loving your business again. Click the link above to set up a call identify your goals, discuss your current roadblocks, and to ask any questions about working together.
Business Roadmap: This is for the business owner who needs help on what the next thing is to do, and the next 5 steps after that. You don’t need another social media course, email funnel, or sales strategy, but a plan specific to you and your business. You’ll gain clarity on where your business is at, create a plan, you’ll know what to do and what to ignore, along with the resources you need. In the end, you will take that plan and implement, saving you thousands of dollars and years of headache.
A third way, and I know I only said two, but sometimes I can’t help myself. If you are feeling stuck and are in need of resources, reach out. I am happy to point you in the right direction and even provide an asset of my own to help you move forward.
If you find you are feeling overwhelmed in your role as a leader or business owner, and need to gain clarity and a path forward, scheduling a First Steps Consultation may be your next best step. Sign up here
Stephanie German is a business strategist, adjunct professor, and speaker. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership and loves giving back to her community in a variety of ways. When she’s not coaching clients or writing about leadership, Stephanie is usually headed to the mountains or the beach with her family, drinking savory wine, or working on the latest project with her husband. Stephanie’s greatest desires are to raise up the next generation of leaders while raising her own children to be strong, independent, and brave. She lives in Fresno, California with her husband Blake and her three spunky daughters, Cara, Kinsey, and Peyton. She is the best-selling author of So Your Boss Can’t Lead?