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Be useful, be kind

A self-explanatory mantra.

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I’m not a big fan of mantras, but I am a fan of this one: be kind, and be useful.

I originally encountered it in a fun interview Barack Obama did with Bear Grylls (a nature adventurer). When asked what advice Obama gives his daughters, he rhymed off this mantra: they should be useful, and be kind.

It’s a piece of advice that’s simple, easy to remember and internalize, and one that helps you consider other people as you act and make decisions. And it’s a nice reminder to consider what you’re able to contribute to any situation.

As far as sayings go, it’s a pretty good one to live by.

Chris Bailey
About the author

Chris Bailey

Chris is the bestselling author of four books—Intentional, How to Calm Your Mind, Hyperfocus, and The Productivity Project—which have been published in more than 40 languages. He also hosts the Intentional AI podcast, writes a biweekly newsletter, The Recap, and speaks to audiences around the world on how they can become more productive without hating the process.

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