Thread by @amandanat

"Have a great day. I hope no one talks to you."

That's an inside joke I have with a friend.

It’s because sometimes the kindest thing you can do for someone is leave them be.

Here are 8 other easy and unexpected ways to be kind:

1/ Give them a timely "no."

If you're reluctant to commit to something, it's because you have competing priorities. So prioritize.

If it means saying no to something, you're doing that person a favor.

You're not making them wait for you to decide.

2/ Don't reply to them.

Did someone send you an email that elicits an, "Ok!" response in your mind? Something that doesn't require an answer?

Don't respond.

Break the cycle so that both of you can move on.

3/ Don't ask, "Can I help?"

Just help.

Your boss is overloaded with approvals? Batch your requests into 1 email so that everything is in 1 place.

Stressed-out friend is planning their kid's birthday party? Volunteer to pick up the cake.

4/ Give them an easy out.

This is obviously a terrible negotiation tactic. But not everything is a negotiation.

End a request with: "There is zero pressure for you to commit."

And mean it.

5/ Table an opportunity.

Got a friend you've been wanting to have on your podcast, but they're having a hard time finding space on their calendar?

Replace them.

Tell them you'll follow up in a month after their schedule has calmed down.

6/ Help them help you.

Asking for a reference? Send a short list of your accomplishments to refresh the person's memory.

Asking for an intro? Write a 50-word blurb about yourself that your friend can forward via email when they make the introduction.

7/ Limit their options.

Want to be a considerate party guest? Don't ask, "What can I bring?"

Tell them you want to bring a side dish or dessert and if they don't choose one, you will.

If they have a preference, they'll express it.

8/ Recommend someone without being asked.

Guesting on a webinar? Offer the host 1-2 suggestions for great guests.

Sourcing speakers is hard, and most hosts are eager for the help. Plus, it's an opportunity to lift up others.

An easy win for everyone.

That's all I have for now. What else would you add?

If you enjoyed this thread:

• Retweet the 1st tweet to share with others

• Follow me: @amandanat

I write about marketing and working better.

https://twitter.com/amandanat/status/1439965826031882249?s=21