Some writers, from atop their high horses, suggest that niceness is fake, done only to avoid punishment from those in power or to ingratiate oneself in order to extract a benefit. YSBN disagrees! "Nice" simply means pleasing and agreeable. That sounds pretty okay.

Hypothesizing that niceness is fueled by ulterior motives or fear-based self-protection strategies is an aftermarket redefinition of it to something other than "niceness." These high riders are talking about insincere niceness, not true niceness.

Take, for example, a barista who always greets customers with a warm smile and a friendly attitude. Critics might claim the barista is only nice to get tips. However, the positive atmosphere created by this genuine niceness improves everyone's day, regardless of the barista's personal gain.

Or consider a coworker who consistently compliments others and offers help. Some might argue they're just trying to get ahead. Yet, their actions build a supportive work environment, boosting morale and fostering teamwork.

Kindness and niceness aren't the same thing. A kind person might care deeply but be blunt, while a nice person could be polite and pleasant yet not particularly caring.

If kindness is selfless benevolence, caring, and helpfulness, then perhaps it is deeper and morally superior to niceness. It certainly sounds more difficult than simple niceness. For instance, someone who volunteers tirelessly at a homeless shelter demonstrates kindness, even if they're occasionally gruff.

Here at YSBN, we aren't going to judge kind people who are sometimes rude. We also believe that nice people shouldn't have their motives maligned and don't have to care about everything.

One step at a time, people! Start with being nice—it's easier. Tackle kindness later, if you choose. Or simply be nice; many things will be better for you and those around you.

So, to the high-riding nice vs. kind nitpickers, go easy on "nice." Genuine niceness never did anything to you to warrant your strawman fallacy argument and trash-talking!