Welcome to One Word Suggestion.
Most people think improv is just for comedy or jazz music. But, really, it’s a tool for life. For each article in this series I use a single word, suggested by you, as a leaping off point to explore how having an improvisational mindset will help you perform at a higher level, both personally and professionally, whether you have a career on or off the stage.
One Word Suggestion: Kindness
This week’s word, “kindness” was suggested by Jan.
Mark Twain once said, “Kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can hear.”
Now, I’m not sure what that means other than everyone likes to be treated kindly, which, no disrespect to Mr Twain, is pretty obvious.
That said, we do live in a world where it sure seems like a lot of people aren’t being very kind to each other.
From wars to nationalism, to government corruption and sabotage, there’s all kinds of unkindness going on.
What’s the solution? Well, part of it just might be an improv class. Because the building blocks of improvisation include things like listening, agreement, acceptance, putting others before yourself, empathy, trust, and having each other’s back.
And I think you’d agree these all fall into the “kind behaviour” category.
On stage or off, applying the building blocks of improv can help you become an even kinder person. And it’s pretty clear to me that’s something the world needs right now.
So if you want to be the kind of person that people want to play and work with, try putting some of these things into practice.
Kindness at home? That’s usually pretty easy with our loved ones. Kindness at work? Where we spend 80% of our time? That can be a bit more of a challenge.
As an experiment, try being as friendly and compassionate towards everyone you come into contact with today, as you are with your loved ones – including yourself.
Or you could give up on trying to be a good person, and just focus on being a better person, as suggested by Dolly Chugh in her recent TED talk.
Either way, if you find yourself getting frustrated with your fellow man, take a deep breath and then go google “improv classes.”
Because kindness just might be the thing that saves us all.
So that’s my take on Kindness. Thanks for the great suggestion Jan.
Listen to the podcast version of this article below or wherever you find podcasts.
If you want to suggest a word for next week, or add your perspective, drop me a note in the comments or in a review. I’m making one of these every week, for a year, so definitely subscribe, like, share, and all that jazz.
Or better yet, listen to the podcast.
And in the meantime, if you’re interested in improv for personal growth, professional achievement, or just for fun, my suggestion is to get yourself into an improv class or book a corporate training workshop for your team.
You can learn all about PowerProv’s programs at powerprov.com.au
Eran Thomson is the Founder of Zuper Superannuation, Laugh-Masters Academy, PowerProv, Comedy & Co, and the Australian Improv Festival.
About One Word Suggestion
The One Word Suggestion series is your personal toolbox full of ways to help you use the power of improvisation to craft a more mindful and meaningful existence. Available as articles, a podcast, and soon, a book filled with powerful exercises for teams. Brought to you by PowerProv.
The One Word Suggestion Podcast with Eran Thomson
In each 3-minute episode, I use a single word, suggested by listeners, as a leaping off point to explore how developing an improvisational mindset will help you perform at a higher level personally and professionally.
Whether you aspire to be better on stage or on the job, this quick hit of improv inspiration is sure to bring you some insights, perspective, and joy.
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August 2, 2016 · Season 1 : One Word Suggestion · Episode 11
One Word Suggestion: Kindness
By Eran Thomson
Kindness at home? That’s usually pretty easy with our loved ones. Kindness at work? Where we spend 80% of our time? That can be a bit more of a challenge.
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