Going Through A Lot?
Dear Collective Family,
This week, our intention is simple but incredibly meaningful:
"You know who is going through a lot right now? Literally everyone. Be kind."
In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to get wrapped up in our own struggles. Deadlines, responsibilities, personal challenges—at times, it can feel like the world is resting squarely on our shoulders. But the truth is, every single person you encounter is carrying something heavy, even if you can’t see it. Just like you, they’re navigating their own storms, fighting battles you may never know about.
The world often feels overwhelming, and when life piles up, our first instinct can be to retreat inward, focusing only on ourselves. But what if, instead, we paused and recognized that we are all dealing with something? What if we allowed that understanding to guide how we treat others—not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard?
Kindness isn’t just a nice thing to offer—it’s a responsibility we share as humans. It’s how we show up for one another, even when we’re stretched thin. Kindness doesn’t mean fixing someone’s problems or pretending everything is fine. It’s about small gestures that remind people they aren’t alone: a smile, a genuine "How are you?", holding space for someone to vent, or even just being patient when someone is struggling.
You never know how much a simple act of compassion can mean to someone on the brink of giving up. In those small, thoughtful moments, we create connection—and connection is what keeps us going when things get tough. You might not even realize that these moments may inspire people.
Let’s be honest—being kind isn’t always easy. When you’re exhausted, frustrated, or feeling stretched too thin yourself, it can be difficult to muster patience and compassion. But this is when kindness matters the most. It’s in those difficult, inconvenient moments when choosing kindness can be transformational—not just for the person receiving it, but for you as well.
Kindness doesn’t require perfection. You don’t have to have it all together to offer a kind word or extend a small grace. In fact, acknowledging your own challenges can make you more compassionate toward others. You understand because you’ve been there—or maybe, you’re there now.
Here are a few ways we can all bring more kindness into the world, even when life feels overwhelming:
Pause Before Reacting: When you feel irritation bubbling up, take a deep breath. Respond with patience rather than frustration—you never know what someone else is going through.
Offer a Genuine Compliment or Encouragement: A simple, “Hey, you’re doing a great job,” or “I appreciate you,” can mean more than you realize.
Be Present: Sometimes, the best kindness you can offer is your undivided attention. Listen, be fully present, and let someone know they are heard.
Check In: Send a message or make a quick call to someone who’s been on your mind. It takes only a moment but can make a lasting impact.
Be Patient with Yourself: Kindness isn’t just about how you treat others—it starts within. Be gentle with yourself on hard days and practice the same compassion you offer others.
We’re all walking through something—some burdens are visible, and others are deeply hidden. Life isn’t easy for any of us, but together, through shared kindness and understanding, we can make it a little lighter.
This week, let’s practice looking beyond ourselves. Let’s choose patience, compassion, and grace—not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. Because you never know who might be hanging on by a thread, quietly hoping someone will be kind.
And maybe, just maybe, that someone will be you.
With kindness and gratitude,
Charlie
