This website is dedicated to my mother. A woman who, in the 1970s, raised four girls pretty much by herself. She was an amazing role model to us, and we learned a lot about life and how to do things that boys in families usually do. Without boys, the girls had to learn. She managed to raise four very independent women who are all successful in different professions because of her guidance in our lives.

 

This blog is inspired by her influence on me, the youngest of the four. She never let us give up or not do something we promised we would do; girls can do anything boys can do. It is with her strength that I knew I wanted to pursue college and a doctorate. She was at the public presentation of my Chemistry research, smiling the whole time. She told me she was smiling because she was so proud of how confident I was, and that she did not understand any of what I was presenting, but that did not matter. I did it, and she was smiling ear to ear. I had to look away, or I would not have been able to finish.

 

You are probably wondering what that introduction has to do with "Clarity is Kindness." I suggest that you go to the Welcome on my website/blogs. My momma was my inspiration in so many ways in my life. Her tribute is on the website; take a moment to check it out.

 

Mom would always remind us to be kind, even when others aren't. Always do what is best for you. You can do anything you set your mind to. As I was thinking about a teachable moment to blog, I could hear in my head momma saying, "Remember to be kind," which sparked a couple of publications that I had started reading with the theme, "Clarity is Kindness". My mom never thought she was smart, but there is research By Brene' Brown, a researcher, storyteller and Texan who's spent the past two decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. Ms. Brown spent years discussing why clarity is kindness in many situations. Her research demonstrated some interesting work relationship revelations. An employer sparing the truth to an employee that needs guidance is not kind. When guidance is needed, it is best to "rip the Band-Aid off " as mom would say. True feedback with detailed guidance is a gift of kindness. This enables the person to properly understand.

​

Having experienced unclear information and feeling the confusion and frustration of not understanding what the issue was that needed to be discussed impacted my life. In my experience, the unclear was unkind and not constructive. Clarity in communication, even if it is a hard topic to swallow, enables the receiver to understand, which is kind even though, as momma would say, the truth hurts. Clarity is the foundation of accountability. Not surprisingly, research from Locke & Lathum, 2022 indicates that employees perform better when they understand expectations, goals, and reasons through clear communication. It is always true that information provides growth, and a culture that feels valued and competent.

 

Another way to discuss clarity is kindness is "To Name it is to Tame it." by neuroscientist Dr. Dan Seigel. Dr. Seigel considers this phrase a cornerstone of emotional regulation and problem solving. In addition, research from Gallop (2022) demonstrates another aspect of the clarity and productivity. Dr. Siegel's research showed organizations with high levels of clarity and engagement outperform competitors in productivity and retention of employees.

 

Brene’ Brown provides information in the book, "Dare to Lead" that shows clear guidance and space for creativity is the foundation of accountability, courage to give & receive feedback, and a thriving workplace. Lack of clarity breeds confusion, inefficiency, and sometimes even harm.So, the next time you are in a situation where you need to address someone about an issue that needs to be addressed, remember "Clarity = Kindness". Have the courage to give clear feedback, expectations, and goals. Be clear and be kind.