People often use the word nice to compliment others. It’s a pretty universal concept that most everyone agrees on: nice means polite and kind-hearted. But, it’s important to recognize that being nice is more than just a veneer of politeness. In order to be nice, you have to be sincere and authentic. A true nice person demonstrates thoughtfulness, empathy, and fairness in all situations. They also take the time to treat themselves with respect. But, is being a nice person always good?
The definition of nice varies depending on context and culture. For example, in one country, being nice may imply a certain way of behaving or dressing. However, in another, it might simply mean being respectful and empathetic. It’s not surprising, then, that the meaning of nice can become confusing. On this week’s episode of That’s What They Say, hosts Rina Miller and Anne Curzan explore the varying definitions of nice.
In this episode, we discover the difference between being a nice person and a good person. While both have positive traits, being a good person goes much further than being nice. A good person has impregnable boundaries and a solid sense of self-worth, while nice people often let their guard down with those around them. This makes it easier for toxic people to manipulate them and cause damage.
Being a good person means having morals and values. A good person is honest with themselves and others, but they are tactful when delivering difficult news. They also believe in treating others fairly and have a strong desire to help those in need. A good person is not a pushover and they don’t believe that they are better than everyone else. They are humble and understand their strengths and weaknesses and know that it’s important to share the spotlight.
A good person is fair and just, even when it’s hard. They are able to stand up for themselves and their beliefs, and they never try to make someone feel bad by telling them the truth. They are a good listener and remember what people tell them so that they can respond to their needs.
A nice person shows respect for their friends and family by listening to them. They also show appreciation for the things they do for them, such as a birthday or a graduation. They are respectful of other cultures and customs and learn about them to better understand the world around them.
A nice person knows when they have done something wrong and works to fix it. They are also able to admit when they’re hurt and express their feelings. They are honest with themselves and their loved ones, and they are willing to face the consequences of their actions. A nice person isn’t perfect, but they work to make themselves the best version of themselves. They are a good role model and a great friend. They are reliable and always want the best for others.