The Chosen word for the year 2024 – voted by children is Kindness.
Kindness is one of those things that can have a ripple effect, even if it seems small at first. It’s not just about being nice to others—it’s about fostering a sense of connection, compassion, and understanding. At its core, kindness can improve relationships, reduce stress, and make people feel seen and valued. That simple act of kindness can boost someone’s mood, give them a sense of belonging, or even change the trajectory of their day, year or even life.
On a broader level, kindness has a way of creating a more positive environment, whether at work, school, or in a community. When people are kind to each other, it encourages collaboration, trust, and respect. It can dissolve tension, reduce conflict, and make it easier to find common ground.
The great thing is, kindness doesn’t always require grand gestures. It can be something as simple as offering a smile, saying good morning, listening when someone needs to talk, or giving someone the benefit of the doubt. It also has a personal benefit: studies have shown that being kind can improve your own mental health, increase happiness, reduce physical stress, even improve physical health by lowering blood pressure and boosting the immune system.
In a world that can sometimes feel divided or rushed, kindness is a powerful way to bridge gaps and make life just a little bit easier for everyone.
Kindness is essential because it creates connections, fosters empathy, and promotes a sense of belonging. It has a contagious effect, often inspiring others to act kindly as well, creating a more positive environment. It helps break down barriers, whether cultural or personal, and encourages cooperation over competition. Ultimately, kindness makes the world more compassionate, helping people feel valued, understood, and supported, which is key to a harmonious, thriving society.
How do you see kindness showing up in your life?
Iwood Health, Wrington 