“I don’t have to be nice to people. I like being a b@%!$. It’s my thing.”
This was the disconcerting tidbit I overheard the other day while reading at my favorite coffee shop (I love you Fourth Coast!).
Devote an afternoon scrolling through the dramatic side of Tumblr or spend too much time listening to the latest girl power pop album and it would appear that being a diva is all the rage right now. However, there is a clear line between channeling your inner Beyoncé and completely disregarding your manners.
It doesn’t take that much effort to be nice to another person. A simple, “Hello,” and a smile can go a long way. Or thanking your friend when they help you pick up after a party. Or being patient with the cashier at Meijer (let’s be honest, their day was worse than yours).
Despite the low level of energy required to make a stranger’s day, kindness is seldom seen anymore. Doors are slammed in your face, fingers fly during traffic jams, and your acquaintances feel entitled to give you advice under the guise of, “Don’t be offended, but…”
It is not manly to constantly tear your friends down with cruel practical jokes and hurtful nicknames. Nor is it an expression of feminism to walk around like a self-proclaimed “diva” and publicly shame other women for not subscribing to your view of femininity.
I will readily admit that I am not an expert on kindness. I am guilty of taking my stress and anger out on those close to me. And yes, this is disappointing, for both myself and the people I love the most. There is no excuse for unleashing waves of fury and spite on my mom or little brother because I have a case of the Mondays. Sometimes I wake up on the wrong side of the bed, which means that it is my prerogative to turn the day around and simply be nice.
So how does one prepare for a day of pleasantry and kindness?
How can you fend off the irrational anger and angst left over from your teenage years?
For me, being kind starts with being kind to myself. That translates into regular exercise, healthy diet, and the requisite hours of sleep it takes to keep you sane. I am not one for meditation or yoga, but it is a tried and proven method for stress management. If you’re really desperate to be in a better mood, I suggest a good loaf of bread or a gallon of chocolate ice cream.
Being a b@%!$ is not a thing. It’s disrespectful, rude, and a convenient excuse for you to treat other people like crap. Nothing screams “entitled Millennial” more than being a rude, arrogant 20-something. Lunch with your parents is more important than your Twitter feed and it should never be a hassle to help your friend jump their car.
Our time on Earth is short, a fact we often forget. There is no such thing as a Second Impression and you don’t get “do-overs” when you damage a relationship. I would rather spend my days being kind, happy, and wonderful than constantly apologizing for my horrid temper. Make a choice and show some appreciation for your fellow man. You might like how you feel and I’m sure we will too.
