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Writer's pictureKaryn Ross

Kind Leaders don't Tolerate Unkindness

As well as modeling how to be kind through their own words and behaviors, Kind Leaders don't tolerate unkindness in others.

One of the most common myths about kindness is that kindness is about tolerating … well … just about anything. Or that it’s about “turning the other cheek.” It’s not. 


Kindness is about standing up to, and speaking out against unkindness. Whenever and wherever you hear and see it. 


If you hear someone denigrating someone from another culture or background, making fun of someone who has a disability, or disparaging women or LGBTQIA+ folks, kindness means speaking up and letting that person know that their words and actions are hurtful and harmful. 


That can take a lot of strength, because you might be afraid that the person being unkind will be unkind to you. That’s why I always say that kindness is about strength! But you have the strength to do it! 


Today, when you hear someone speaking unkindly, or see someone acting unkindly, gather your strength and let them know that you won’t tolerate unkindness. If you are at work, let the person know you will contact your supervisor about the unkindness or use the anonymous reporting line many organizations have. In the community, get together with others who are organizing to prevent and stop unkindness in your area. At home, don’t tolerate unkind words and actions from family members. Speak up and educate them on the harm they are causing to others and to you. 


Kind leaders know that what is tolerated grows.


That’s why they don’t tolerate unkindness. 


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