Today’s Joy Notes is the awareness that KINDNESS can has a potential of harming the giver. Kindness has always been my guiding principle. I take pride in leaning into every situation with an open heart, always ready to help and volunteer. If you know me you’ve heard me say with pride “I’m a giver”. For years, I’ve been the dedicated person others can count on. But over time, I noticed that as I kept filling others’ tanks, mine was slowly draining. It became clear that constantly giving, without pausing to replenish my own spiritual, mental, and physical energy, was unsustainable. When I finally started saying “no” to create space for self-care, I was met with resistance and criticism.
This led me to reflect on the true nature of kindness and how to practice it sustainably. I realized that being truly kind means knowing when to step back and prioritize yourself. Then you give joyfully and not of commitment. Here are a few tips to avoid burnout while still giving to others:
• Set healthy boundaries: Learn to say no when needed, without guilt.
• Schedule time for self-care: Your energy needs to be restored regularly.
• Empower others: Teach others to take care of themselves instead of constantly relying on you.
• Reflect on your values: Kindness doesn’t mean self-sacrifice; it means balance.
A kind person knows how to give while maintaining their own well-being. True kindness comes from a place of fullness, not depletion.
Today’s playlist:
Hailee Steinfeld — “Love Myself”
Electric Light Orchestra — “Don’t Bring Me Down”
Kelis ft. Too $hort — “Bossy”
Mary J. Blige — “Just Fine”
Nina Simone — “Feelin’ Good”