Building relationships with other people, whether it is a significant other, people at work, friends, or family members, is not limited to gestures and actions. You must also use words of kindness to express either your love or appreciation, or both.
Kindness in action is powerful, but coupling it with kind words takes it to another level. Words have incredible potential to enhance feelings, foster positivity, and forge deeper emotional intimacy within relationships. They serve as a catalyst, creating an environment where connections flourish and emotional bonds grow stronger.
Here are some tips for you to express your love and gratitude by using words of kindness:
Be Specific and Sincere In Your Words
Tell someone how much they mean to you by saying the words. Don’t just assume they know. You can say something like, “I am so happy I have you in my life.”
Try to be as specific as you can by pointing out what exactly it is that you appreciate about them. For instance, you can say, “I love how you boost me up and make me feel better about myself.”
Being specific shows that you pay attention to the other person and you don’t simply say those words just for the sake of saying them.
Your words must be sincere and come from your heart. You can also use the element of surprise. Give them praises when they least expect it, and that will feel more genuine and meaningful.
Use “I” Statements to Express How You Feel
If you want to get something across, using “I” statements can help you communicate concerns and feelings without sounding like you’re blaming or threatening the other person. The “I” statements say how you see things from your side, preventing someone from shutting down or being defensive.
These words are more likely to evoke kindness and compassion rather than hostility or negative emotions.
Focus On the Positive Qualities Of the Other Person
Be generous with compliments as long as they are true. You can say nice things about their outfit or look, but don’t limit yourself to physical appearances. Compliment their skills and other positive qualities too, such as their sense of humor, wittiness, and intelligence.
When you focus on the positive characteristics of a person, they tend to want to be even better, or show more of that ‘goodness.’ It gives them confidence and boosts their self-esteem.
Alternatively, if you make them feel like they are always doing something wrong, and can’t do anything right to please you, then guess what? You will continually see that in them.
Use Gentle Language
Be gentle with your words, especially when someone is going through a crisis. Instead of harsh words that blame them for their mistakes, tell them “I understand…” or “It’s okay, don’t worry about it.”
If you really mean what you are saying, telling them “I forgive you” can make a whole lot of difference. Words of kindness can bring healing for both the speaker and the receiver.
Send a Card or Write a Letter
Words of kindness don’t have to be spoken all the time. Written words can also be as powerful as verbal words. If you write them down, it also gives you more time to think about what you want to say. It shows your thoughtfulness because you’re willing to spend time thinking about them and taking the time to write down what you want to say.
Also, do not underestimate the power of a short note. Leaving a little post-it note for someone, saying something loving and thoughtful, can brighten up their day!
Words are powerful, and when you use them to show kindness, you can build better relationships and deeper connections with the people around you. You can express your love and appreciation for them with specific and genuine words, either spoken or written!
Choose to be kind with your words and match them with kind gestures and actions too. They will make a big difference in your relationship with others.
Good words bring good feelings to the heart. Speak with kindness, always.”
– Rod Williams
