10 ways to be kinder

a dreamy guide to goodwill

1. Listen like you’re learning a new language. Intently.

   Let someone speak without crafting a reply in your head. Let their words wash over you like waves. Most people don’t have anyone to truly hear them. Be that person who listens, who takes time to sit with the thoughts of others. Without interruptions. Without judgement.

2. Compliment people on the most random yet striking traits.

   Like the way their voice becomes soft when they talk about poetry, and structured when they talk about science. The little sunflower on their t-shirt that almost goes unnoticed. That hot new haircut mirror selfie that didn’t get many likes — but absolutely should’ve.

3. Forgive silently.

   Unblock your ex after a year. Not because you want them back, but because you’ve let go. They might have forgotten you, but you’ve forgiven them. That’s peace. That’s power.

4. Ghost logic, sometimes.

   You don’t have to fit into a particular theory given by a particular theorist. Set your own trends. Wear that cute polka dot frock in which you look “too childish.” And if you are afraid that they might call you mad, then embrace that. Be as goofy as you’d like to be.

5. Ask twice. Or maybe thrice.

   When someone says "I’m alright,” ask again. Not in a nosy way but in a way that makes them feel like they’re someone worth caring for. People often lie about their health — both physical and mental. Be a lie detector. A gentle one.

6. Let people be weird around you.

   Let your friends flex their Wordle streaks. Mimic Gopi bahu. Do all sorts of gibberish, silly-good activities. Never make them question their excitement. Instead, give them new reasons to be.

7. Remember birthdays.

   Be a calendar. Paint people’s hearts with new things and nonsense. Pay attention to the little things they mention adoring, and find them. Gift them that. The world is already a storehouse of sad, bad things. Make them feel unspeakably loved.

8. Make a stranger’s day.

   Tell them that their earrings are slay. That their fashion sense looks like they walked out of a Wes Anderson film. That their energy is comforting to the best possible extent. They will remember you. People always remember how you make them feel, if not anything else.

9. Let joy be public.

   Dance unchoreographed. Sing impromptu. Sometimes the sweetest thing you can do for this world is let it see you be happy, giggly, and heart-sparkly.

10. Be interesting. Be interested.

    Honestly, this is the mantra of my life. Be curious enough to ask questions. Be open enough to learn. Be someone people look forward to meeting. That makes you special, honey!

I hope you took your notes from Professor Dreamdust. She has done a double PhD in being whimsy and wise. Remember that!

With a crown on your head for reading it till here,

Adrika :)