One of the guiding philosophies I try to embody is to do no harm. This especially applies to interpersonal relationships where harm can manifest in many different forms. These include no being honest, not being reliable, not being trustworthy, and not taking accountability. Each of these harms can have ripple effects that are deleterious to one’s health and well-being. When we can no longer believe, rely on, or trust somebody, the friendship is in ruin.
Sensitivity aids me in my path to doing no harm. Being sensitive of others’ temperaments, inclinations, and sensibilities is crucial for avoiding causing harm. Listening is another critical skill. Learning about a person’s potential triggers and emotional vulnerability is key for preventing any harm. When you know someone’s detailed history and the story they construct for themselves, then you can better be of service to them.
Of course, there are some downsides to doing no harm. First, being extra sensitive to somebody’s temperament may prevent you from speaking your mind. At fearing the risk to offend, you can prevent yourself from speaking your truth and being authentic. This can prevent healthy and necessary discourse from taking place. Second, trying to do no harm may still lead to doing harm unintentionally. This is still consequential.
Overall, trying to do no harm presents more benefits than costs. Intention matters and getting that in order is an important first step to helping others. Being clear and direct in one’s speech is also invaluable for establishing healthy communication. From here, boundaries can be cemented and a better understanding of each other is reached. Good communication is the antidote to unnecessary harm being committed.
How would the world shift if we all gave our best efforts to do no harm? How many relationships would be salvaged? How much kindness would proliferate? A change in mentality and perspective is all that is required. More sensitivity towards others’ fragility would be in order. Open and honest communication would become more common place. Relationships would blossom as a consequence.