Nice means “pleasant or agreeable,” “of a pleasing appearance,” and “having good manners and courtesy.” People who are nice act in a friendly, ingratiating way and treat others with respect. Nice is a quality that is important in both work and personal relationships.
Nice people respect themselves. They understand that their actions have an impact on the lives of other people, and they make a conscious effort to consider this impact. They know that they aren’t perfect and admit when they have made a mistake. They also recognize their strengths and acknowledge areas of themselves that could use improvement. Nice people don’t allow their insecurities to hold them back, and they aren’t afraid to stand up for themselves when necessary.
People who are nice strive for fairness, even if it makes them uncomfortable. They want to treat everyone fairly, regardless of their status in life or the impact on their own goals. Nice people know that if they compromise their values, they will ultimately lose their respect and the trust of those around them. They don’t let peer pressure dictate their decisions and are willing to stand up for what they believe in, even if it means losing some of their friends or ruffling feathers.
It’s also important for nice people to be able to see the good in other people. They take the time to compliment friends and colleagues on their qualities. They aren’t just focused on looks and other superficial traits, but they also comment on the passion a person has for their job or their interest in a particular hobby. This kind of encouragement helps people feel valued and recognized, which can boost their self-esteem.
If a friend or colleague has performance problems, nice people address them immediately. They don’t wait to confront someone for making poor decisions or acting dishonestly, because they know that ignoring these issues will only make things worse in the long run. Instead, they take the lead and set new standards that are expected of everyone in their group. This sends a message that the group is more important than individual members.
Lastly, nice people are generous with their kindness and often help those in need. They volunteer for community projects, give food to homeless people, and help their coworkers with projects when they’re overwhelmed. They remember birthdays and anniversaries, and they are always offering to lend a hand. They don’t just treat their close friends and family with kindness, but they extend this generosity to their coworkers, classmates, and complete strangers. They are the ones who hold the door for other people, who bring donuts to work, and who offer to babysit for a neighbor when they’re sick. They are a gift to the world. This is a trait that can be learned by all, so don’t wait until you are perfect to be nice. Be nice to yourself and you will find that it is easier to be nice to others.