Niceness as Survival: How to Smile and Not Explode
When kindness feels out of reach, we move to Tenet #2 of the Cult of Brighter Days: If you can’t be kind, be nice.
Let’s face it: there will be days (and in-laws) that pull the kindness right out of you. Niceness isn’t a cop-out—it’s the soft cover that keeps the emotional shrapnel from flying.
1. Niceness Is Disarming Without Being Dishonest
Your aunt critiques your potato salad like she’s judging an episode of Chopped. “No mayo? That’s not real potato salad.”
Instead of unleashing years of culinary superiority, you say: “More for me. I like to live dangerously.”
You just dodged a pointless debate and kept your dignity.
2. Niceness Is Redirection With Style
Your cousin leans in with a grin and asks, “Still single?” You smile and say, “Yep! My standards are still functioning, thanks.”
Then pivot. “Have you tried the grilled peaches? Total game-changer.”
3. Niceness Is Emotional Self-Regulation
You’ve been cut in line. Again. You’re hungry, sweating, and vibrating with resentment. Instead of snapping, you grab a drink and cool off. Not for them. For you.
Niceness is choosing not to escalate. It’s the inner bouncer telling chaos, “Not today.”
4. Niceness Doesn’t Mean Lying
You can be polite and still set boundaries. “I’d rather not talk politics right now.” “Let’s catch up about that later.”
Niceness is not submission—it’s redirection with compassion.
Final Blessing:
Being nice doesn’t mean being fake. It means choosing peace over pride. It’s showing up with decency even when your reserves are low. And it’s a valid way to preserve your mental health when your cousin brings up conspiracy theories over baked beans.
Niceness is diplomacy in flip-flops. And sometimes? It’s the highest calling of the day.
