Kindness in leadership often gets misunderstood.
Especially when it’s done right.You’re told:
“Just be a kind leader.”
Like that's obvious. Or that simple.
But what no one tells you is:
Kindness hurts sometimes
Because people don't see what it actually feels like to:
✖️ Give honest feedback and watch their face fall
✖️ Say no when everyone wants yes
✖️ Hold someone accountable
(and then carry the weight of it all, afterward)
They don’t see the guilt that hits after a tough conversation.
Or the loneliness that comes with doing what’s right instead of what’s easy.
Or the pressure of protecting the mission 𝘢𝘯𝘥 your people at the same time.
They don’t feel the tension of caring deeply…and still saying, “This job wasn’t done right.”
But here’s the reality:
Kindness in leadership isn’t about being soft.
It’s about staying 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱.
It doesn't mean you have to be too nice.
But you do have to be very clear.
Because real kindness is:
✅ Giving people truth instead of comfort
✅ Saying no to protect what matters most
✅ Holding the standard when it would be easier not to
The Hard Truth:
Kindness in leadership isn’t about how you feel.
It’s about what your team becomes because of you.
Being kind will cost you comfort.
But it will earn you trust.
What's hard about leading with kindness for you?