Recently my partner suggested a “date night in”; a romantic evening in our home (no babysitter required!) I was eager to come up with a plan that would distinguish date night from every other evening we spend at home after putting our toddler to bed. I turned to the internet. I went deep and I discovered that, for most people, romance isn’t the grand gestures, romance is being kind, thoughtful and present while you’re together.

Countless articles showcased how a person was not only initially attracted to their partner’s kindness, but how that kindness actually turned them on – even after years of being together.

Studies show that kindness – and by kindness, I mean empathy, respect and support, NOT being a pushover who gets stuck with the crap nobody else wants – has real impact on a person’s path to success within an organization. It allows people to trust you and feel confident collaborating with you. It also makes someone more likely to think of you when opportunities come up – because not only do they respect you, but they also like you.

I recently reconnected with a former colleague and as we caught up, she casually mentioned that she held on to a powerful memory of my kindness on her first day at the company. To her, being welcomed, introduced to others and shown around the huge campus changed the entire trajectory of her career. She felt comfortable and confident and was able to perform at her highest level. When she offered me a big business opportunity, it showcased that the way we show up for others matters and lasts.

How have you experienced and practiced kindness in your personal and professional life? What impact have you noticed as a result?