Don't Gatekeep Your Compassion

We live in a culture that loves to gatekeep. We gatekeep our favorite songs, our style secrets, and even our 'success hacks.' But one thing you should never, ever gatekeep is your compassion. Being kind isn't a limited resource. You don't lose anything by sharing it; in fact, it’s one of the few things in life that actually grows the more you give it away. When you choose to be open and generous with your spirit, you’re creating an atmosphere where everyone can win.

There’s this beautiful concept in psychology called 'prosocial behavior.' It basically means doing things that benefit others, and it’s one of the biggest predictors of long-term happiness. When you’re kind, you’re not just helping the other person; you’re reinforcing your own sense of self-worth. You’re proving to yourself that you are a person of value who can make a difference. That’s a powerful internal narrative to have. It keeps you grounded when things get tough and gives you a reason to keep going.

Imagine if your entire social circle decided to stop gatekeeping their support. Imagine if everyone was just 10% more encouraging and 10% less judgmental. The collective mental health of your group would skyrocket. You have the power to start that movement. You can be the one who sets the standard for how you all treat each other. By being the first to offer help or show vulnerability, you’re making it safe for everyone else to do the same. That’s how you build a real community.

So, stop holding back. If you see someone doing a great job, tell them. If you have extra time or resources, share them. Don't wait for someone else to go first. Lead with your heart and let your kindness be your calling card. You’ll be amazed at how much faster you move when you’re part of a supportive, kind ecosystem. Life is a team sport, and you’re the MVP when you play for the good of the whole squad.