June 7, 2025 • 29 mins
Hello and welcome to another inspiring episode of Inspirations for Your Life. I’m your host, John C. Morley—serial entrepreneur, engineer, podcast coach, and a firm believer that kindness isn’t just a nicety—it’s a force that can transform our world. Today’s episode isn’t just a discussion—it’s an invitation. We’re diving deep into how kindness, when embraced and passed on, becomes a catalyst for building stronger, more compassionate communities. Whether it’s a small gesture or a major act of goodwill, kindness is a currency that multiplies the more we give it away. So, grab your favorite drink, take a breath, and let’s explore how each of us can ripple positivity throughout our lives and the lives of those around us. 1️⃣ The Ripple Effect of Kindness 🌊
Kindness is contagious—and in the best possible way. When someone treats us with genuine care or compassion, we often feel compelled to do the same for someone else. This ripple effect can travel further than we ever imagined, touching lives we may never meet. One smile, one compliment, one thoughtful gesture—it doesn’t end with the person you gave it to; it travels, it multiplies. Like a pebble dropped into still water, kindness radiates outward, shaping not just one moment, but many. You never know how your one act could change someone’s entire day—or life. 2️⃣ Recognizing and Appreciating Acts of Goodwill 🙌
Too often, we overlook everyday acts of kindness. But when we take time to notice and genuinely appreciate them, we reinforce their value and encourage others to do the same. Whether it’s someone holding the door, offering their seat, or just being present with a listening ear—acknowledging those moments strengthens social bonds and builds mutual respect. Appreciation doesn’t have to be grand; a simple “thank you” or heartfelt acknowledgment can mean the world. It tells people, “I see your kindness, and it matters.” 3️⃣ Choosing to Respond with Empathy, Not Ego 🤝
It’s easy to react defensively when we’re challenged or misunderstood, but true strength lies in choosing empathy over ego. When we respond with understanding instead of judgment, we disarm tension and create space for healing and trust. Empathy doesn’t mean you agree—it means you’re willing to understand. And in a world filled with sharp opinions and quick reactions, empathy is a radical and powerful form of kindness that often inspires others to soften and listen in return. 4️⃣ Small Gestures Can Make a Big Difference 🧁
Never underestimate the power of a small, sincere act. A handwritten note. A warm smile. A shared cup of coffee. These seemingly minor moments are often the ones people remember most. Why? Because they’re real. They’re human. They remind people that they matter. In a society that often glorifies grand achievements, we must remember that compassion is not measured by size—it’s measured by impact. And sometimes, the smallest gesture carries the deepest meaning. 5️⃣ Encouraging a Pay-It-Forward Mindset 🔁
When we receive kindness, we have a beautiful choice: to keep it or pass it on. Encouraging a pay-it-forward mindset means recognizing that we are part of something larger than ourselves. It means understanding that every kind act is an opportunity to build a better world. Whether it’s buying someone’s coffee or mentoring a colleague, passing it on creates a chain of goodwill. The best part? It always circles back in unexpected, beautiful ways. 6️⃣ Kindness as a Strength, Not a Weakness 💪
In a world that sometimes equates strength with toughness, kindness can be wrongly seen as soft or naive. But the truth is, it takes immense courage to be kind in the face of hostility, misunderstanding, or indifference. Kindness requires emotional intelligence, self-control, and resilience. It’s not weakness—it’s wisdom. And when we show that kindness isn’t about giving in, but lifting up, we redefine what strength truly looks like. 7️⃣ Building Community Through Every
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:19):
Hey guys, it is John C.
Morley here, serial entrepreneur.
You are tuned into Inspirations for Your Life.
Thanks so much for popping in.
If you are new here, I just want
to extend a very warm welcome to you.
And if you're coming back, well, welcome back.
It's always great to have my fellow friends
and colleagues here on Inspirations for Your Life.
(00:40):
Today is the last day for this master
topic.
The master topic is Timeless Principles for Living
with Intention and Integrity.
And the granular for this evening or today
is when treated with kindness, pass it on
to build a more caring community.
Series four, show 23, episode number seven.
So let's get this kicked off.
But before we do, I do want to
(01:01):
thank you all for being here.
And of course, to welcome here.
But if you're hungry or you're thirsty, feel
free to head off to the kitchen and
come on back with something delicious, whether it's
sweet, whether it's hot, whether it's tart or
not.
And don't forget to check out BelieveMeAchieved.com
right after the show or any other time,
24 hours a day when you're not watching
me.
So hello, everyone, and welcome to the inspiring
(01:24):
episode of Inspirations for Your Life.
I'm your host, John C.
Morley, serial entrepreneur, engineer, podcast coach, video producer,
and one that's passionate about helping you make
a positive change in your life.
And I'm a believer that kindness isn't just
a nicety, it's a force that could transform
our world.
So let's start doing more of it.
(01:45):
Today's episode isn't just a discussion, it's an
invitation.
We're diving deep into how kindness, when embraced
and passed on, becomes a catalyst for building
stronger, more compassionate communities.
Whether it's a small gesture or a major
act of goodwill, kindness is a currency that
multiplies the more we give it away.
(02:07):
So grab your favorite drink, as I said,
take a breath, and let's explore how each
of us can ripple positively throughout our lives,
all right, and the lives of those around
us that we care so much about.
So I'm going to get right into it,
and that number one is the ripple effect.
We've talked about it before, but it's the
ripple effect of kindness, and I think it's
(02:28):
something that a lot of people miss in
their lives because they don't realize the power
of it.
So I thought I would go in and
talk to you about it.
So kindness is contagious, if you didn't know
this already.
And in the best possible way, when someone
treats us with genuine care or compassion, we
often feel compelled to do the same for
(02:49):
someone else.
This ripple effect can travel further than we
ever imagined, touching lives we may never meet.
One smile, one compliment, one thoughtful gesture, it
doesn't end with the person you gave it
to.
It travels.
It multiplies like a pebble dropped into still
(03:10):
water.
Kindness radiates outward, shaping not just one moment,
but many.
You never know how your one act could
change someone's entire day or their life or
make a monumental change in the world.
You just don't know.
So why don't we start being kind more
often?
We might not just surprise ourselves.
(03:31):
Other people may be surprised as well.
And it may cause a ripple effect positively.
Number two, recognizing and appreciating acts of goodwill.
So too often we overlook everyday acts of
kindness, right?
But when we take time to notice and
(03:53):
genuinely appreciate them, we reinforce their value and
of course encourage others to do the same,
whether it's someone holding the door, offering their
seat, or maybe just being present with listening
ears.
Acknowledging those moments strengthens social bonds and builds
a mutual respect.
(04:15):
Appreciation doesn't have to be grand, guys.
A simple thank you or heartfelt acknowledgement can
mean the world to someone.
It tells people, I see your kindness and
it matters to me.
And most importantly, thank you.
All right, number three is another great point.
I mean, all these points are fantastic, guys,
(04:36):
but this is a good one.
Choosing to respond with empathy, not ego.
In my lifetime, I have had the privilege
of meeting great people.
And I've also had the challenge of being
around these egotistical things.
And I won't use any words against them.
But they can definitely make you think, right?
Choosing to respond with an empathy mindset and
(04:58):
not an ego mindset.
It's easy, guys, to react defensively when we're
challenged or misunderstood.
But true strength lies in choosing empathy over
ego.
When we respond with understanding instead of judgment,
we disarm tension and create space for healing
and trust.
Empathy doesn't mean you agree.
It means you're willing to understand.
(05:20):
And a world filled with sharp opinions and
quick reactions with knee-jerk responses.
These opinions, unfortunately, and these bad actions, okay,
really cause problems.
Because empathy is a radical and powerful form
of kindness that often inspires others to soften
(05:42):
and listen in return.
I think sometimes when we have conversations with
people, we don't soften it.
Not because we don't want to, but a
lot of times because we don't know that
we should, right?
It's not interrogation when we're talking with somebody.
Number four, small gestures can make a big
difference in everyone's life.
(06:03):
Never underestimate, folks, the power of a small,
sincere act.
A handwritten note, a warm smile, a shared
cup of coffee or tea or beverage, right?
These seemingly minor moments are often the ones
people remember most.
Why?
Because they're real.
(06:24):
They're human.
They remind people that they matter.
In a society that often glorifies grand achievements,
we must remember that compassion is not measured
by size.
It's measured by impact.
And sometimes the smallest gesture carries the deepest
meaning.
Number five, encouraging a pay-it-forward mindset.
(06:46):
This is something I wish there was so
much more in the world because it is
so very, very positive, guys.
I mean, really positive.
When we receive kindness, we have a beautiful
choice to keep it or pass it along.
Encouraging a pay-it-forward mindset means recognizing
(07:07):
that we are part of something larger than
ourselves.
It means understanding that every kind act is
an opportunity to build a better world.
Whether it's buying someone's coffee or mentoring a
colleague, passing it on creates a chain of
goodwill.
The best part is it always circles back
in the unexpected, most beautiful ways.
(07:29):
And I think some people don't really understand
that.
They don't get why this happens.
But it's kind of a miracle of life.
Number six, folks.
Kindness as a strength, not as a weakness.
I've told a lot of people when I
see they're trying to abuse my kindness and
I say, please don't take my kindness for
(07:52):
weakness.
Okay, I say that to them right now.
Please don't take my kindness for weakness.
In a world that sometimes equates strength with
toughness, kindness can be wrongly seen.
Okay, as soft or naive.
But the truth is it takes immense courage
(08:12):
to be kind in face of hostility, misunderstanding,
or indifference.
Kindness requires emotional intelligence, self-control, and resilience.
It's not weakness.
It's wisdom.
And when we show that kindness isn't about
giving in but lifting up, we redefine what
strength truly looks like.
Number seven, building community through everyday compassion.
(08:36):
Strong communities are not built, folks, overnight.
They're woven together, thread by thread, through daily
acts of compassion, through voices that care, through
the unsaid words and gestures, greeting your neighbors,
(08:58):
checking in on a friend, volunteering your time,
sending a card.
These habits of heart create trust, belonging in
a shared sense of humanity.
Communities don't need heroes.
They need people who care.
And when everyone contributes a little kindness, we
all thrive a little bit more.
(09:19):
So why don't we start being kind, right?
Why?
I think the reason is that most people
don't think it's going to do anything for
them, or they think it might demean their
attitude, right?
I mean, that's the truth.
(09:41):
And if it does, then maybe we can
understand something.
We can understand that what the world is
saying is not true, that being kind actually
matters.
Right?
It matters because there's so much more we
(10:02):
can do when we embrace that.
So again, let's be kind.
It's priceless.
Number eight, turning gratitude into action.
Gratitude, my friends, is powerful.
But when it stays in our hearts, instead
(10:23):
of becoming visible through our actions, it loses
valuable momentum.
Turning gratitude into action means expressing thanks in
ways that uplift others.
Maybe it's helping someone because you've once received
help, or mentoring someone because someone once believed
in you.
When gratitude drives your actions, it becomes a
living legacy that benefits more than just yourself.
(10:47):
And I think that's a very important thing
to realize, that we can make an amazing,
amazing difference in our lives if we truly
act with gratitude.
And gratitude comes from the heart.
Gratitude means that, you know what, I want
to do something nice for you.
(11:08):
I don't care if you do something nice
for me, but I'm doing this for you
because I want to.
Not because I'm looking for something in return.
I think that's a hard thing for a
lot of people to swallow.
Number nine, modeling positive behavior for others.
Kindness is one of the most teachable traits.
(11:29):
And the best way to teach it is
to live it.
Whether you realize it or not, someone is
watching.
Your kids, coworkers, friends, and yes, even strangers.
When you choose to act with compassion, others
learn it's okay to do the same back.
(11:50):
You become a quiet, powerful role model who
influences not by telling, but by showing.
I've always said to people, you know, you
can preach all day long about the things
you want people to do.
But until you become that example, no one
will follow you.
Be the person who leads by the example,
(12:12):
not for applause, but because it's who you
are at your core.
Number 10, the long-term impact of consistent
kindness.
One kind act is wonderful, but consistent kindness,
that's transformative over time.
It changes relationships.
(12:33):
It reshapes communities.
It redefines cultures.
It instills hope where there was none.
People begin to expect kindness, to trust it,
and to return it.
It becomes part of the air we breathe.
And the most beautiful part is that the
(12:54):
long-term effects often outlive even us.
A legacy of kindness doesn't fade, it echoes.
And today's kindness becomes tomorrow's peace.
I don't know about you, but I think
that is very, very powerful.
Now you know what time it is.
This is the part of the program that
I really love a lot.
(13:17):
And so what I'm going to do now
is I'm going to basically give you a
personal story or lesson for each point that
I shared today.
And my hope is that it will get
(13:38):
you to change the way you're doing things.
Not because you have to, but because you
should want to.
Now that sounds like something that is a
little unbelievable, but I will tell you something.
When you stop doing things for an applause,
(13:59):
and you do things for the reason that's
in your heart, and you don't hang around
to see if there's going to be an
applause, that's when people are going to notice.
The ripple effect of kindness.
I remember once holding the door open for
someone struggling with a stroller and shopping bags.
This person was so grateful.
It was a simple moment, but later that
(14:20):
day, I saw her doing the same for
an elderly man at the grocery store.
That small act set something in motion.
I didn't expect it, but it reminded me
how kindness spreads like ripples in a pond.
You never know who you'll inspire just by
doing the right thing.
Just because someone's not watching doesn't mean you
(14:42):
shouldn't be kind.
Number two, recognizing and appreciating acts of goodwill.
Years ago, I was rushing to a business
meeting in the rain when a stranger offered
me their umbrella.
It caught me off guard, but I never
forgot that moment.
Since then, I've made a point to recognize
those invisible kindnesses in others.
(15:03):
I say thank you more.
I write notes to colleagues.
People need to know their efforts are seen.
Appreciation doesn't just lift the recipient.
It uplifts the one who gives it, the
giver.
I've said to you that when we do
something, it's like a boomerang.
It comes right back to us.
If we give good, it comes back to
us good.
If we give bad, it's going to come
back to us bad.
(15:25):
Number three, choosing to respond with empathy, not
ego.
There's so many people I've encountered that have
just had this ego that was larger than
life.
It was really there to try to prove
something.
And some of them learned and some of
them didn't.
But there was a time when a client
unfairly criticized my work.
(15:47):
My first instinct was to defend myself, maybe
even lash out.
But I promised myself one time that I
wouldn't do that.
I paused, and I chose empathy.
I asked questions instead of reacting.
It turns out they were under a lot
of pressure and just needed to be heard.
Their response saved the relationship and taught me
(16:10):
that choosing empathy isn't weakness.
It's strategic, compassionate leadership.
It went something like this.
We were doing a design for this person,
and they were really upset.
Well, how come you guys can't spell?
How come you guys put these words this
way?
So we did spellcheck it.
Well, this isn't the right word.
This isn't even the right place.
(16:30):
We got all this from your website, which
is what we were told.
You couldn't have got it from there.
And I said, well, what would you like
us to put there?
I'll have to think about it.
I'm too busy.
I don't have time for this.
I understand.
No rush.
When you get the time, reach out to
us, and we'll make the changes for you.
(16:51):
Number four, small gestures can make a big
difference.
On a tough day, someone once left a
cupcake on my desk with a note that
said, John, you've got this.
It was a tiny but powerful thing.
That gesture turned my entire day around and
(17:11):
reminded me how meaningful the little things can
be.
Ever since I remember that moment, I try
to do small acts like that, sending messages,
sharing a smile, offering encouragement.
They cost literally pennies or nothing but can
mean the world to someone.
Number five, encouraging a pay-it-forward mindset.
(17:36):
One of my dreams is to get a
pay-it-forward movement going.
I was once stuck with a flat tire
late at night, and a kind stranger stopped
to help me.
Before I even had a chance to call
my roadside service, I offered the money, and
he refused and simply said, just help the
next person you can.
(17:58):
The phrase stuck with me, and I wanted
to cry.
Now, when I help others, I tell them
the same thing.
Whether it's buying coffee or giving advice, pay
-it-forward reminds us that we're all part
of something bigger, this ecosystem, a lot bigger
than ourselves, a lot bigger than our family,
(18:21):
a lot bigger than our street, bigger than
our town, bigger than our state, our county,
our state, our country, our world.
So do something kind for someone.
(18:41):
Pay it forward.
Remind others that compassion still lives, and not
only will they feel good, you're going to
feel amazing afterwards.
Number six, kindness as a strength, not a
weakness.
As a leader, day in and day out,
(19:01):
I've faced moments where being tough seemed like
the only way to earn respect.
But when I led with kindness, when I
listened, supported, and mentored, I saw my teams
just skyrocket with positivity.
Kindness builds loyalty, trust, and collaboration.
(19:22):
People confuse kindness with passivity.
They also confuse it with weakness.
It's not.
It's a bold choice, and it takes real
courage to lead with heart.
I remember one or two times a player
said to me something, and then all of
a sudden, I thought that they were really
starting to exploit my weakness, is what it
(19:42):
seemed like.
And I said, don't take my kindness for
weakness, because I wasn't weak.
I was being kind.
And once I said that, they realized what
they were doing.
And I think that's something that a lot
of us need to understand, is that it's
not bad to be kind, whether you're male
(20:05):
or female.
It doesn't matter.
Kindness is something that everybody should exude.
But when somebody does try to abuse it
and take you down as weak, then you've
got to come out and say, look, please
don't take my kindness for weakness.
(20:26):
And people will really wake up to that.
Number seven, guys, building community through everyday compassion.
I've talked about the fact before that empathy
is when we basically listen, when we try
to put ourselves in their shoes.
But compassion is when we literally take the
steps to help them or get them to
(20:49):
take the steps.
It's a lot more invested than just empathy.
Most strangers will have empathetic feelings because of
something you're going through.
After a major storm in my neighborhood, we
all came together to clean up, share food,
and support one another.
That moment taught me that community is built
not just in crisis, but in daily actions.
(21:11):
Greeting your neighbors, showing up for events, caring
without being asked.
Compassion, folks, creates bonds.
It's the fabric of our life that makes
a group of people a true community.
It's not being done for an accolade, a
praise, or an applause, or even an award.
(21:34):
It's being done because we know it's the
right thing to do.
Number eight, turning gratitude into action.
Now, I've said to you before that talk
is cheap.
But if you can be something, if you
can show something, that's when it matters.
(21:58):
But you do it quietly.
I once received a reward that completely changed
my path.
I promised myself I'd give back someday.
Years later, I started mentoring some students and
supporting local education programs.
(22:21):
Now, it's not a lot, but I want
to keep building on that.
Gratitude turned into action.
And that action has turned into a legacy
I'm proud of.
When we act from gratitude, we honor those
who helped us by lifting someone else up.
You don't have to give money, folks.
You can give your time.
You can volunteer at a shelter like I
(22:42):
do or a walk-in dinner program.
I think those are important things.
And when we do these things, it's like
we get this euphoric feeling back.
Number nine, modeling positive behavior for others.
(23:02):
When a relative of mine was young, he
saw me helping someone fix a challenge that
someone was having.
And he said to me, John, why did
you do that?
I told him because it was the right
thing to do.
(23:25):
A week later, he helped his classmate pick
up spilled books.
Kids absorb everything.
But it's not just kids.
It's our peers.
It's our teams.
It's even strangers.
It's even adults.
And they all see how we move through
the world.
(23:45):
By living kindly, we invite others to do
the same.
See, it's this silence, walking and leading with
silence, but showing loudly by the
(24:06):
subtle actions you take can reshape an entire
community, a company, a world.
My last story I want to share with
you tonight is long-term impact of consistent
kindness.
This might sound like something that's out of
a fairy tale, but it's not.
(24:29):
Over the years, I've had people tell me,
quote, you probably don't remember this, but years
ago, you helped me.
And then they share how one moment of
kindness stuck with them.
That's when I realized consistent kindness isn't just
about the feeling good in the moment.
It shapes reputations, cultures, and lives.
(24:51):
When you show up with kindness day in,
day out, or day after day, however you
measure it, you create this ripple, this magical,
powerful force that has the ability to transcend
(25:13):
many decades.
So kindness, it isn't random.
It's intentional.
And when we choose to receive it, we
have to be open to receive it, not
just give it.
We're invited into something bigger than ourselves.
(25:36):
So the next time someone treats you with
kindness, don't just say thank you.
Pass it on.
In doing so, you'll help build a world
where caring isn't rare.
It's the norm.
Wouldn't it be nice to turn on the
TV?
We've been hearing the news, such and such
did this, or such and such did this,
or this community received this.
(25:58):
We don't hear that.
We hear about the murders.
We hear about the robberies.
Why aren't more people being kind?
Is it because they're not where they want
to be?
(26:18):
But that's no reason to not be kind.
The kinder you can become, I'm going to
say the Lord here because I'm religious, but
if you're not, opens doors for you.
And there's a great passage.
The Lord, our Savior, he opens doors for
us that no man can open, and he
(26:46):
closes doors that no one could open.
So he opens doors that no one can
shut, and he closes doors that no man
can open.
Think about that for a moment.
And this is why, guys, I picked this
theme for this week.
(27:07):
Timeless principles for living with intention.
That's in our heart, guys, and integrity.
And you do it regardless of whether somebody's
watching or not.
And it's important to do it when people
are not because a lot of times you
think, well, I don't have to do this
(27:28):
because, you know, no one's watching.
I remember this movie.
I think it was Ocean 7.
I think it was Ocean 7 or Ocean
12 or something like that.
And there was the owner of the casino,
and I remember his date coming down.
(27:51):
And she watched this camera, and all of
a sudden she knew what happened.
And he said to her, he said, Tess,
but wait, wait.
He says, Tony, you should know in your
hotel, someone is always watching.
So remember, guys, act as if someone's always
(28:11):
watching.
You'll always do the right thing.
I'm John C.
Morley, serial entrepreneur.
Be authentic and treat people with kindness, and
it will follow you in ways with magic
and blessings you never imagined.
Have a great one, and we'll see you
tomorrow, everyone.
Thanks for watching.
Hey guys, it is John C.
Morley here, serial entrepreneur.
You are tuned into Inspirations for Your Life.
Thanks so much for popping in.
If you are new here, I just want
to extend a very warm welcome to you.
And if you're coming back, well, welcome back.
It's always great to have my fellow friends
and colleagues here on Inspirations for Your Life.
(00:40):
Today is the last day for this master
topic.
The master topic is Timeless Principles for Living
with Intention and Integrity.
And the granular for this evening or today
is when treated with kindness, pass it on
to build a more caring community.
Series four, show 23, episode number seven.
So let's get this kicked off.
But before we do, I do want to
(01:01):
thank you all for being here.
And of course, to welcome here.
But if you're hungry or you're thirsty, feel
free to head off to the kitchen and
come on back with something delicious, whether it's
sweet, whether it's hot, whether it's tart or
not.
And don't forget to check out BelieveMeAchieved.com
right after the show or any other time,
24 hours a day when you're not watching
me.
So hello, everyone, and welcome to the inspiring
(01:24):
episode of Inspirations for Your Life.
I'm your host, John C.
Morley, serial entrepreneur, engineer, podcast coach, video producer,
and one that's passionate about helping you make
a positive change in your life.
And I'm a believer that kindness isn't just
a nicety, it's a force that could transform
our world.
So let's start doing more of it.
(01:45):
Today's episode isn't just a discussion, it's an
invitation.
We're diving deep into how kindness, when embraced
and passed on, becomes a catalyst for building
stronger, more compassionate communities.
Whether it's a small gesture or a major
act of goodwill, kindness is a currency that
multiplies the more we give it away.
(02:07):
So grab your favorite drink, as I said,
take a breath, and let's explore how each
of us can ripple positively throughout our lives,
all right, and the lives of those around
us that we care so much about.
So I'm going to get right into it,
and that number one is the ripple effect.
We've talked about it before, but it's the
ripple effect of kindness, and I think it's
(02:28):
something that a lot of people miss in
their lives because they don't realize the power
of it.
So I thought I would go in and
talk to you about it.
So kindness is contagious, if you didn't know
this already.
And in the best possible way, when someone
treats us with genuine care or compassion, we
often feel compelled to do the same for
(02:49):
someone else.
This ripple effect can travel further than we
ever imagined, touching lives we may never meet.
One smile, one compliment, one thoughtful gesture, it
doesn't end with the person you gave it
to.
It travels.
It multiplies like a pebble dropped into still
(03:10):
water.
Kindness radiates outward, shaping not just one moment,
but many.
You never know how your one act could
change someone's entire day or their life or
make a monumental change in the world.
You just don't know.
So why don't we start being kind more
often?
We might not just surprise ourselves.
(03:31):
Other people may be surprised as well.
And it may cause a ripple effect positively.
Number two, recognizing and appreciating acts of goodwill.
So too often we overlook everyday acts of
kindness, right?
But when we take time to notice and
(03:53):
genuinely appreciate them, we reinforce their value and
of course encourage others to do the same,
whether it's someone holding the door, offering their
seat, or maybe just being present with listening
ears.
Acknowledging those moments strengthens social bonds and builds
a mutual respect.
(04:15):
Appreciation doesn't have to be grand, guys.
A simple thank you or heartfelt acknowledgement can
mean the world to someone.
It tells people, I see your kindness and
it matters to me.
And most importantly, thank you.
All right, number three is another great point.
I mean, all these points are fantastic, guys,
(04:36):
but this is a good one.
Choosing to respond with empathy, not ego.
In my lifetime, I have had the privilege
of meeting great people.
And I've also had the challenge of being
around these egotistical things.
And I won't use any words against them.
But they can definitely make you think, right?
Choosing to respond with an empathy mindset and
(04:58):
not an ego mindset.
It's easy, guys, to react defensively when we're
challenged or misunderstood.
But true strength lies in choosing empathy over
ego.
When we respond with understanding instead of judgment,
we disarm tension and create space for healing
and trust.
Empathy doesn't mean you agree.
It means you're willing to understand.
(05:20):
And a world filled with sharp opinions and
quick reactions with knee-jerk responses.
These opinions, unfortunately, and these bad actions, okay,
really cause problems.
Because empathy is a radical and powerful form
of kindness that often inspires others to soften
(05:42):
and listen in return.
I think sometimes when we have conversations with
people, we don't soften it.
Not because we don't want to, but a
lot of times because we don't know that
we should, right?
It's not interrogation when we're talking with somebody.
Number four, small gestures can make a big
difference in everyone's life.
(06:03):
Never underestimate, folks, the power of a small,
sincere act.
A handwritten note, a warm smile, a shared
cup of coffee or tea or beverage, right?
These seemingly minor moments are often the ones
people remember most.
Why?
Because they're real.
(06:24):
They're human.
They remind people that they matter.
In a society that often glorifies grand achievements,
we must remember that compassion is not measured
by size.
It's measured by impact.
And sometimes the smallest gesture carries the deepest
meaning.
Number five, encouraging a pay-it-forward mindset.
(06:46):
This is something I wish there was so
much more in the world because it is
so very, very positive, guys.
I mean, really positive.
When we receive kindness, we have a beautiful
choice to keep it or pass it along.
Encouraging a pay-it-forward mindset means recognizing
(07:07):
that we are part of something larger than
ourselves.
It means understanding that every kind act is
an opportunity to build a better world.
Whether it's buying someone's coffee or mentoring a
colleague, passing it on creates a chain of
goodwill.
The best part is it always circles back
in the unexpected, most beautiful ways.
(07:29):
And I think some people don't really understand
that.
They don't get why this happens.
But it's kind of a miracle of life.
Number six, folks.
Kindness as a strength, not as a weakness.
I've told a lot of people when I
see they're trying to abuse my kindness and
I say, please don't take my kindness for
(07:52):
weakness.
Okay, I say that to them right now.
Please don't take my kindness for weakness.
In a world that sometimes equates strength with
toughness, kindness can be wrongly seen.
Okay, as soft or naive.
But the truth is it takes immense courage
(08:12):
to be kind in face of hostility, misunderstanding,
or indifference.
Kindness requires emotional intelligence, self-control, and resilience.
It's not weakness.
It's wisdom.
And when we show that kindness isn't about
giving in but lifting up, we redefine what
strength truly looks like.
Number seven, building community through everyday compassion.
(08:36):
Strong communities are not built, folks, overnight.
They're woven together, thread by thread, through daily
acts of compassion, through voices that care, through
the unsaid words and gestures, greeting your neighbors,
(08:58):
checking in on a friend, volunteering your time,
sending a card.
These habits of heart create trust, belonging in
a shared sense of humanity.
Communities don't need heroes.
They need people who care.
And when everyone contributes a little kindness, we
all thrive a little bit more.
(09:19):
So why don't we start being kind, right?
Why?
I think the reason is that most people
don't think it's going to do anything for
them, or they think it might demean their
attitude, right?
I mean, that's the truth.
(09:41):
And if it does, then maybe we can
understand something.
We can understand that what the world is
saying is not true, that being kind actually
matters.
Right?
It matters because there's so much more we
(10:02):
can do when we embrace that.
So again, let's be kind.
It's priceless.
Number eight, turning gratitude into action.
Gratitude, my friends, is powerful.
But when it stays in our hearts, instead
(10:23):
of becoming visible through our actions, it loses
valuable momentum.
Turning gratitude into action means expressing thanks in
ways that uplift others.
Maybe it's helping someone because you've once received
help, or mentoring someone because someone once believed
in you.
When gratitude drives your actions, it becomes a
living legacy that benefits more than just yourself.
(10:47):
And I think that's a very important thing
to realize, that we can make an amazing,
amazing difference in our lives if we truly
act with gratitude.
And gratitude comes from the heart.
Gratitude means that, you know what, I want
to do something nice for you.
(11:08):
I don't care if you do something nice
for me, but I'm doing this for you
because I want to.
Not because I'm looking for something in return.
I think that's a hard thing for a
lot of people to swallow.
Number nine, modeling positive behavior for others.
Kindness is one of the most teachable traits.
(11:29):
And the best way to teach it is
to live it.
Whether you realize it or not, someone is
watching.
Your kids, coworkers, friends, and yes, even strangers.
When you choose to act with compassion, others
learn it's okay to do the same back.
(11:50):
You become a quiet, powerful role model who
influences not by telling, but by showing.
I've always said to people, you know, you
can preach all day long about the things
you want people to do.
But until you become that example, no one
will follow you.
Be the person who leads by the example,
(12:12):
not for applause, but because it's who you
are at your core.
Number 10, the long-term impact of consistent
kindness.
One kind act is wonderful, but consistent kindness,
that's transformative over time.
It changes relationships.
(12:33):
It reshapes communities.
It redefines cultures.
It instills hope where there was none.
People begin to expect kindness, to trust it,
and to return it.
It becomes part of the air we breathe.
And the most beautiful part is that the
(12:54):
long-term effects often outlive even us.
A legacy of kindness doesn't fade, it echoes.
And today's kindness becomes tomorrow's peace.
I don't know about you, but I think
that is very, very powerful.
Now you know what time it is.
This is the part of the program that
I really love a lot.
(13:17):
And so what I'm going to do now
is I'm going to basically give you a
personal story or lesson for each point that
I shared today.
And my hope is that it will get
(13:38):
you to change the way you're doing things.
Not because you have to, but because you
should want to.
Now that sounds like something that is a
little unbelievable, but I will tell you something.
When you stop doing things for an applause,
(13:59):
and you do things for the reason that's
in your heart, and you don't hang around
to see if there's going to be an
applause, that's when people are going to notice.
The ripple effect of kindness.
I remember once holding the door open for
someone struggling with a stroller and shopping bags.
This person was so grateful.
It was a simple moment, but later that
(14:20):
day, I saw her doing the same for
an elderly man at the grocery store.
That small act set something in motion.
I didn't expect it, but it reminded me
how kindness spreads like ripples in a pond.
You never know who you'll inspire just by
doing the right thing.
Just because someone's not watching doesn't mean you
(14:42):
shouldn't be kind.
Number two, recognizing and appreciating acts of goodwill.
Years ago, I was rushing to a business
meeting in the rain when a stranger offered
me their umbrella.
It caught me off guard, but I never
forgot that moment.
Since then, I've made a point to recognize
those invisible kindnesses in others.
(15:03):
I say thank you more.
I write notes to colleagues.
People need to know their efforts are seen.
Appreciation doesn't just lift the recipient.
It uplifts the one who gives it, the
giver.
I've said to you that when we do
something, it's like a boomerang.
It comes right back to us.
If we give good, it comes back to
us good.
If we give bad, it's going to come
back to us bad.
(15:25):
Number three, choosing to respond with empathy, not
ego.
There's so many people I've encountered that have
just had this ego that was larger than
life.
It was really there to try to prove
something.
And some of them learned and some of
them didn't.
But there was a time when a client
unfairly criticized my work.
(15:47):
My first instinct was to defend myself, maybe
even lash out.
But I promised myself one time that I
wouldn't do that.
I paused, and I chose empathy.
I asked questions instead of reacting.
It turns out they were under a lot
of pressure and just needed to be heard.
Their response saved the relationship and taught me
(16:10):
that choosing empathy isn't weakness.
It's strategic, compassionate leadership.
It went something like this.
We were doing a design for this person,
and they were really upset.
Well, how come you guys can't spell?
How come you guys put these words this
way?
So we did spellcheck it.
Well, this isn't the right word.
This isn't even the right place.
(16:30):
We got all this from your website, which
is what we were told.
You couldn't have got it from there.
And I said, well, what would you like
us to put there?
I'll have to think about it.
I'm too busy.
I don't have time for this.
I understand.
No rush.
When you get the time, reach out to
us, and we'll make the changes for you.
(16:51):
Number four, small gestures can make a big
difference.
On a tough day, someone once left a
cupcake on my desk with a note that
said, John, you've got this.
It was a tiny but powerful thing.
That gesture turned my entire day around and
(17:11):
reminded me how meaningful the little things can
be.
Ever since I remember that moment, I try
to do small acts like that, sending messages,
sharing a smile, offering encouragement.
They cost literally pennies or nothing but can
mean the world to someone.
Number five, encouraging a pay-it-forward mindset.
(17:36):
One of my dreams is to get a
pay-it-forward movement going.
I was once stuck with a flat tire
late at night, and a kind stranger stopped
to help me.
Before I even had a chance to call
my roadside service, I offered the money, and
he refused and simply said, just help the
next person you can.
(17:58):
The phrase stuck with me, and I wanted
to cry.
Now, when I help others, I tell them
the same thing.
Whether it's buying coffee or giving advice, pay
-it-forward reminds us that we're all part
of something bigger, this ecosystem, a lot bigger
than ourselves, a lot bigger than our family,
(18:21):
a lot bigger than our street, bigger than
our town, bigger than our state, our county,
our state, our country, our world.
So do something kind for someone.
(18:41):
Pay it forward.
Remind others that compassion still lives, and not
only will they feel good, you're going to
feel amazing afterwards.
Number six, kindness as a strength, not a
weakness.
As a leader, day in and day out,
(19:01):
I've faced moments where being tough seemed like
the only way to earn respect.
But when I led with kindness, when I
listened, supported, and mentored, I saw my teams
just skyrocket with positivity.
Kindness builds loyalty, trust, and collaboration.
(19:22):
People confuse kindness with passivity.
They also confuse it with weakness.
It's not.
It's a bold choice, and it takes real
courage to lead with heart.
I remember one or two times a player
said to me something, and then all of
a sudden, I thought that they were really
starting to exploit my weakness, is what it
(19:42):
seemed like.
And I said, don't take my kindness for
weakness, because I wasn't weak.
I was being kind.
And once I said that, they realized what
they were doing.
And I think that's something that a lot
of us need to understand, is that it's
not bad to be kind, whether you're male
(20:05):
or female.
It doesn't matter.
Kindness is something that everybody should exude.
But when somebody does try to abuse it
and take you down as weak, then you've
got to come out and say, look, please
don't take my kindness for weakness.
(20:26):
And people will really wake up to that.
Number seven, guys, building community through everyday compassion.
I've talked about the fact before that empathy
is when we basically listen, when we try
to put ourselves in their shoes.
But compassion is when we literally take the
steps to help them or get them to
(20:49):
take the steps.
It's a lot more invested than just empathy.
Most strangers will have empathetic feelings because of
something you're going through.
After a major storm in my neighborhood, we
all came together to clean up, share food,
and support one another.
That moment taught me that community is built
not just in crisis, but in daily actions.
(21:11):
Greeting your neighbors, showing up for events, caring
without being asked.
Compassion, folks, creates bonds.
It's the fabric of our life that makes
a group of people a true community.
It's not being done for an accolade, a
praise, or an applause, or even an award.
(21:34):
It's being done because we know it's the
right thing to do.
Number eight, turning gratitude into action.
Now, I've said to you before that talk
is cheap.
But if you can be something, if you
can show something, that's when it matters.
(21:58):
But you do it quietly.
I once received a reward that completely changed
my path.
I promised myself I'd give back someday.
Years later, I started mentoring some students and
supporting local education programs.
(22:21):
Now, it's not a lot, but I want
to keep building on that.
Gratitude turned into action.
And that action has turned into a legacy
I'm proud of.
When we act from gratitude, we honor those
who helped us by lifting someone else up.
You don't have to give money, folks.
You can give your time.
You can volunteer at a shelter like I
(22:42):
do or a walk-in dinner program.
I think those are important things.
And when we do these things, it's like
we get this euphoric feeling back.
Number nine, modeling positive behavior for others.
(23:02):
When a relative of mine was young, he
saw me helping someone fix a challenge that
someone was having.
And he said to me, John, why did
you do that?
I told him because it was the right
thing to do.
(23:25):
A week later, he helped his classmate pick
up spilled books.
Kids absorb everything.
But it's not just kids.
It's our peers.
It's our teams.
It's even strangers.
It's even adults.
And they all see how we move through
the world.
(23:45):
By living kindly, we invite others to do
the same.
See, it's this silence, walking and leading with
silence, but showing loudly by the
(24:06):
subtle actions you take can reshape an entire
community, a company, a world.
My last story I want to share with
you tonight is long-term impact of consistent
kindness.
This might sound like something that's out of
a fairy tale, but it's not.
(24:29):
Over the years, I've had people tell me,
quote, you probably don't remember this, but years
ago, you helped me.
And then they share how one moment of
kindness stuck with them.
That's when I realized consistent kindness isn't just
about the feeling good in the moment.
It shapes reputations, cultures, and lives.
(24:51):
When you show up with kindness day in,
day out, or day after day, however you
measure it, you create this ripple, this magical,
powerful force that has the ability to transcend
(25:13):
many decades.
So kindness, it isn't random.
It's intentional.
And when we choose to receive it, we
have to be open to receive it, not
just give it.
We're invited into something bigger than ourselves.
(25:36):
So the next time someone treats you with
kindness, don't just say thank you.
Pass it on.
In doing so, you'll help build a world
where caring isn't rare.
It's the norm.
Wouldn't it be nice to turn on the
TV?
We've been hearing the news, such and such
did this, or such and such did this,
or this community received this.
(25:58):
We don't hear that.
We hear about the murders.
We hear about the robberies.
Why aren't more people being kind?
Is it because they're not where they want
to be?
(26:18):
But that's no reason to not be kind.
The kinder you can become, I'm going to
say the Lord here because I'm religious, but
if you're not, opens doors for you.
And there's a great passage.
The Lord, our Savior, he opens doors for
us that no man can open, and he
(26:46):
closes doors that no one could open.
So he opens doors that no one can
shut, and he closes doors that no man
can open.
Think about that for a moment.
And this is why, guys, I picked this
theme for this week.
(27:07):
Timeless principles for living with intention.
That's in our heart, guys, and integrity.
And you do it regardless of whether somebody's
watching or not.
And it's important to do it when people
are not because a lot of times you
think, well, I don't have to do this
(27:28):
because, you know, no one's watching.
I remember this movie.
I think it was Ocean 7.
I think it was Ocean 7 or Ocean
12 or something like that.
And there was the owner of the casino,
and I remember his date coming down.
(27:51):
And she watched this camera, and all of
a sudden she knew what happened.
And he said to her, he said, Tess,
but wait, wait.
He says, Tony, you should know in your
hotel, someone is always watching.
So remember, guys, act as if someone's always
(28:11):
watching.
You'll always do the right thing.
I'm John C.
Morley, serial entrepreneur.
Be authentic and treat people with kindness, and
it will follow you in ways with magic
and blessings you never imagined.
Have a great one, and we'll see you
tomorrow, everyone.
Thanks for watching.
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