What if one minute of your workday could make you more patient, less reactive, and a lot easier to collaborate with?

That is the idea behind loving-kindness meditation, a simple practice that focuses on silently offering good will to yourself and others. This is not about pretending conflict does not exist or forcing yourself to like everyone.

Begin with a few phrases such as, “May I be well. May I be calm. May I feel supported.” From there, you extend the same wishes to a coworker, a team, or even someone who regularly fills your calendar with “quick” meetings that are never quick.

It is about creating a brief pause between irritation and response. At work, that pause matters. It can support stronger relationships, better listening, and more thoughtful communication.

Try it before a difficult conversation, after a stressful meeting, or while waiting for your coffee to brew.

Even two minutes can help shift your mindset from “What is wrong with this person?” to “How can we move forward?”

Kindness may sound soft, but in the workplace, it can be a surprisingly powerful, practical everyday leadership skill.