Twenty-five years ago, I learned the simple yet profound lesson, “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice,” which has shaped my perspective on life and relationships. This philosophy of prioritizing kindness over importance has guided my interactions with others, fostering meaningful connections and spreading positivity. By embracing this mindset, I’ve found that being nice not only enriches my own life but also brings joy and fulfillment to those around me.
About 25 years ago, while I was studying in England, I learned something special from a kind-hearted 60-year-old English man. He shared with me a simple yet powerful sentence: “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” This sentence might seem simple at first, but it’s packed with wisdom and kindness, and it has stayed with me ever since.
This advice has shaped the way I see the world and interact with others. It taught me that being kind and nice to people is more valuable than just being seen as important. I’ve carried this lesson with me in my everyday life, from the way I talk to my friends and family, to how I behave with strangers or at work.
Every time I choose to be nice, to listen, or to help someone, I remember that moment in England and the gentle reminder of what truly matters. It’s like a little guide inside my head, helping me make decisions that spread positivity and warmth. This way of thinking has opened many doors for me, not because I sought recognition, but because being nice naturally brings people closer and creates lasting bonds.
I’ve found that life is happier and more fulfilling when you prioritize kindness. It turns out that being nice not only makes others feel good but it comes back to you in many beautiful ways. Whether it’s a smile from a stranger, a thank you from a colleague, or a hug from a family member, these moments are precious and remind me of the beauty of that simple sentence I learned 25 years ago.
So, here I am, years later, still living by those words and hoping to pass on this message: Being nice is one of the most important things we can be. It’s a lesson that has truly enriched my life, making it happier and more meaningful.
Naser Alhemeiri Blog 