Why Kindness Matters To Me:
If I were to be honest, I feel I am a kind person. I think how I would want to be treated by someone else no matter what the situation is. I would also like think I’m unpredictability humorous, I laugh more than cry (only when laughing very hard). At times, I even roll off my chair and cry of laughter. I am amused by slapstick humor. My wife told me this.
My childhood was a bland, I had no siblings so I had to find friends and fun myself. I had to make the most of my life – even at 7 years old. My parents were busy with work and had little time to play with me. I understand that life was hard. They were immigrants from Hong Kong arriving in Canada with little to nothing. They came to give me a better chance at a good life. I enjoyed my alone time playing with toy soldiers and reading comic books. Anyone remember Captain Underpants?
I grew up in a family where faith, love and kindness was emphasized. I believe if someone wronged you, it was not our job to punish others. Instead, we should react in a kind and unforgettable way. Extremely difficult to execute as a human, but over time it has become easier to think this way.
Kindness Is Key:
“In a world where you can be anything, be kind… but also, be unexpected.”
If you’re reading this, you’re probably someone who values self-awareness. You care about impact. You seek a deeper way of moving through life or business. I want to share with you a principle. This principle has radically shaped how I show up as a Realtor. It also influences me as an entrepreneur and a human being.
I am sure you’ve encountered this situation while driving. Someone cuts you off or is found going the WRONG way (in an underground parking garage). In such cases, reversing is the only way to allow traffic to flow the way it was intended to.
Well, that person going the wrong way was me… I was late for the movies with my Wife to see Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. The man in his SUV was going the right way. He gave me a look but was kind. I explained I didn’t see the small sign (do not enter) in a very poorly lit underground parking garage.
Another time, the popcorn machine ran out of butter just as F1: The Movie was about to start! The cinema staff was just hanging out and chatting among themselves. They were kind enough to change the butter promptly. I missed 3 minutes of the beginning but wanted my butter for the popcorn. I didn’t want to regret it later on. It turned out to be a great decision to be kind. They ran for the butter because they knew the movie was about to start. Kindness was unpredictable in those moments.
It became unforgettable for the staff because they realized I was upset their machine ran out of butter. They didn’t refill it earlier. It was also unforgettable for me since I was going the wrong way.
Kindness opens the door. Unpredictability gets you remembered.
Why Kindness Alone Isn’t Enough Anymore:
Yes, kindness is powerful. It’s rare. It’s human.
But in a hyper-automated, system oriented, process driven world — kindness can sometimes get lost in the noise.
The people who create momentum? They’re not just kind.
They’re memorable. They understand people and treat others well. Even in unfavorable moments.
They mix empathy with edge.
Warmth with surprise.
Sincerity with unexpected generosity.
The Power Of Being Unexpectedly Human:
In my own work & life, here’s how I try to live out this idea:
- I pick up the phone and call instead of email/text when it matters – I almost lost a client because my text did not show what I was trying to say (in their best interest)
- I remember birthdays. Even of clients I haven’t spoken to in years. It’s the most important date of their life!
- I deliver more than promised, without expecting praise or reward in return.
Do these things when people least expect them. Be unpredictable. It will make you memorable and unforgettable.
Because surprise is a form of emotional resonance. And resonance builds trust.
Want to Change Your Energy? Try This Today:
Next time you’re in a room — whether it’s a negotiation, a team meeting, or a random situation:
- Lead with kindness. Ask a real question. Answer their question, don’t just respond. Be unforgettable for engaging with them.
- Then add a twist. Tell a funny truth. Gift something meaningful. Make them pause and feel. Show kindness when it is least expected – in a tough or frustration situation.
Kindness builds safety. People open up. Relationships are built.
Unpredictability builds intrigue. Attention is optimized. Results can be altered.
And merge kindness and unpredictability together? That’s where loyalty and legacy begins. Bigger and better opportunities will show up in your life. Start generating momentum for positive actions and feelings for the people around you and watch the world shift. It will be amazing.
Final Thoughts:
You don’t need to be the loudest in the room.
You just need to be the realest — and leave them feeling acknowledged and surprised.
Enjoyed this post? Please share your thoughts and story where you showed kindness or how being unpredictable created new opportunities for you.
Recent Blog Posts:
If you enjoy reading about entrepreneurship: https://progressbydesign.blog/2025/07/04/free-yourself-from-corporate-jobs/
If you enjoy traveling around the world: https://progressbydesign.blog/2025/07/02/my-unforgettable-italian-vacation-a-family-adventure/
If you want read more about gratitude: https://progressbydesign.blog/2025/07/02/transform-your-faith-through-gratitude-practices/
If you have thought about downsizing your life: https://progressbydesign.blog/2025/07/07/selling-our-dream-home/
Let me know if there’s anything you would like to learn more about! Subscribe if you would like to see more posts! 🙂
Discover more from Progress By Design
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.