Drive by Friday

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Drive by Friday –

I couldn’t start this topic without this quote…

“Kindness is a language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see” (Mark Twain)

Workplaces are buzzing with activity – meetings, deadlines, projects, and a never-ending to-do list. But in the midst of all the hustle and bustle, there’s a secret ingredient that can make the difference between a workplace that feels like a grind and one that feels like a community of kindness.

Yes, kindness! Those seemingly small gestures, like bringing an extra coffee for a colleague or dropping a “thank you” note on someone’s desk, go much further than you’d think. In fact, these little acts of humanity create ripples that can have a lasting impact on team dynamics, morale, and even productivity. Why do these small acts of kindness pack such a big punch?

· Boosting Morale – It’s Contagious

Kindness is contagious. Remember that time someone surprised you with a snack during a hectic day? Chances are it brightened your mood instantly and maybe even inspired you to do something nice for someone else.

IDEA: Start a “Random Acts of Kindness” jar in the office. Drop in ideas like “compliment a colleague”, “leave a sticky note with a joke on someone’s desk”, or “offer to grab lunch for someone who’s swamped”. Once a week draw an act from the jar and let the good vibes roll.

· Fostering Strong Relationships: People Over Projects

No matter how many emails we send or meetings we schedule, at the core of every workplace are people. By practicing kindness, we remind each other that behind every project and task is a human being with their own challenges and triumphs. Small acts of kindness such as checking in on a colleague who has been quiet lately or celebrating a personal milestone helps foster strong relationships, and in turn, creates a healthier and happier work environment.

IDEA: organise a morning tea or lunch on a monthly basis (everyone bakes something so limited cost to the company). Not only does this give people the chance to bond over food but it also creates a sense of a shared community.

· Reducing Stress: Tiny Moments of Support

Work stress can pile up quickly, but small acts of kindness can help diffuse it just as fast. When you show kindness to a colleague, whether by offering help on a project or even just making them laugh, it can be a brief but meaningful break in their day. Those little moments of support remind us that we’re not alone in tackling the day’s challenges.

IDEA: introduce a “compliment wall” where colleagues can anonymously leave compliments for each other. It could be as simple as “Amy, your presentation was amazing!” or “Matt, you’re crushing your sales targets, well done!”. Watch how the mood in the office lightens as compliments role in.

· Creating a Positive Work Culture: It’s the Little Things

Big things often come from small shifts in behaviour. By making kindness a priority, you contribute to building a work culture where people genuinely enjoy coming in each day. A workplace that values kindness and connection is one where employees are less likely to leave and more willing to support each other and invest in the company’s success.

IDEA: how about starting a “kindness challenge” in the office? Each week, challenge the team to complete a simple act of kindness for a colleague. It might be sharing a resource, writing a thoughtful email, of even just asking how someone’s day is going. The results might surprise you.

AND FINALLY - Small acts of Kindness in the workplace aren’t just nice to haves – they’re essential to creating an environment where people feel valued and supported. From boosting morale to increasing productivity, these little gestures make a big difference. So, next time you are in the office, remember KINDNESS IS YOUR SUPERPOWER – SHARE IT AROUND!