Kindness from a stranger can instantly alter your mood. – Headteacher Ali Harrison
It’s strange how a random act of kindness from a stranger can instantly alter your mood.
It was the sort of serendipitous encounter that more of us would look for if we could foresee the life-changing potential of the gesture. And so yesterday, I felt at a very low point, imperceptible, I hoped. A mixture of the stress of a busy half term of constant firefighting rather than fulfilling any strategic vision and carrying the burden of an organisation’s problems meant I needed help to let go.
Coupled with my ongoing inner fight with surgical menopause symptoms (weight gain, low energy thanks to poor sleep, and joint pain, to name a few), reminded me daily that my body wasn’t what it used to be. Compounded by nagging self-doubt as the noise of my imposter syndrome reared its head again. My thoughts were becoming increasingly dark despite being abroad in the sunshine.
I had been here before and was trying to fight slipping into the shadows. And then, fate intervened in the form of an 83-year-old lady. She spotted me across the busy bar and approached, looking bright and confident.
The following words made me gasp, and I saw myself for the first time in weeks. She told me that the dress I was wearing looked stunning, that I had looked amazing every evening, and she looked forward to seeing what I was wearing each night. I thanked her and told her honestly how much I needed to hear that. She looked me in the eye, and her following words struck a chord. “Come on she said, “you’ve got this; shine bright”.
I do not know whether it was the motherly advice I have missed so much since my mum passed or the divine intervention of a kind stranger, I do not know. Still, I appreciate her kind connection with me and will look for ways to pay it forward. Judging by the number of dragonflies flying around me this morning, I know someone is reminding me to live life to the fullest and appreciate every moment. As a result, I make a promise to myself to be kinder to myself.
Headteacher Ali Harrison
Would you like to contribute and inspire other members of staff?
If the answer is YES, here is what to do:
Fill in the form below, and one of our team will be in touch.
If you visited our Kindness Matters website but do not have a Twitter account, do reach out, and one of our team will be in touch.
Thank you for your kindness
Your Kindness Coach
John