1. Gentleness
Gentleness does not imply weakness. Quite the opposite. It takes a lot of physical and moral strength to control your actions and emotions instead of letting them control you.

2. Showing consideration and personal concern for others
What is Gentleness?
Showing consideration and personal concern for others
Opposite: Harshness
Related Concepts: Kindness, courtesy, civility, sensitivity, compassion, caring, concern, personal interest
Summary: At its core, gentleness flows from a concern for others and their well-being. It involves showing kindness, courtesy, civility, and care. It recognizes that life isn’t “just about me.” Life revolves around numerous relationships, and gentleness is the “oil” that keeps those relationships working smoothly.

3. “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.”
—Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa (1910–1997) founded the Missionaries of Charity, a Roman Catholic religious congregation, which consists of over 4,500 sisters and is active in 133 countries. They run hospices and homes for people with HIV/AIDS, leprosy and tuberculosis; soup kitchens; children's and family counseling programs; orphanages; and schools.
Other Gentleness Quotes:
“Nothing is so strong as gentleness, and nothing is so gentle as real strength.” —St. Francis de Sales
“Goodwill is the one and only asset that competition cannot undersell nor destroy.” —Marshall Field
“People who fly into a rage always make a bad landing.” —Will Rogers
“In all the affairs of human life, social as well as political, courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones that strike deepest to the grateful and appreciating heart.” —Henry Clay

4. 1. Think of Others
A gentle person builds relationships in many “small” ways, such as a friendly greeting, a kind word, or a thoughtful deed.
Smile! It might sound simplistic, but a smile is contagious and can brighten one’s day in a moment. As Mother Teresa said, “Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.”
Focus on others and less on self. Take a sincere interest in colleagues by knowing what they value. Enjoy small talk, and identify with their dreams.

5. 2. Choose Words Carefully
Words can hurt and words can heal. Use words to build others up instead of tearing them down.
Listen more; talk less. There is a reason we have two ears and one mouth—we should listen twice as much as we speak! It is amazing what we can learn if we simply stop and listen.
Watch your tone of voice. If your tone is threatening, harsh, or combative, this will drive people away. Remember the saying: “You can attract more flies with honey than vinegar.” Also, “It’s not what you say, but how you say it!”

6. 3. Handle With Care
It’s easier to protect relationships and property than it is to repair unnecessary damage.
The way you treat property reflects how much you care about those who own it. Careful handling extends the life of computers, telephones, vehicles, furniture, and other equipment.
One of the biggest tests of gentleness is how you respond in the midst of tension and conflict. Don’t resort to angry words, sarcastic tones, or pounding your fist on the table. Always treat others with dignity and respect—no matter how much you disagree—and maintain a professional demeanor. This is true all the time, but especially during conflict or crisis.

7. Discussion Starters
What are some ways people show kindness to one another at work?
How do kind and thoughtful words improve relationships?
Acts of kindness tend to make everyone feel better. Why do you think this is so?
Additional Gentleness Questions:
• Why do you think organizations that are known for their culture of respect, honor, and kindness are more successful than places where people do not feel as valued?
• People often complain about how rude others are on social media and on the Internet. Why do you think people seem so unkind online? What could be done to make it better?
• How can you make sure what you say online conveys what you want to communicate? How can you ensure what you share is kind and gentle?
How would you feel if you took your car to a mechanic who returned it with dirt on the seat, an empty soda can on the floor, and greasy hand prints on the window? How would you feel if your car was returned washed and vacuumed?

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