There’s an old saying that “nice guys finish last.” But honestly? I don’t buy it—never have, never will. Somewhere along the way, culture decided that being kind, honest, and compassionate meant being weak. In the business world especially, there’s this idea that you have to be cutthroat, “bossy,” or dripping with attitude to get ahead. But that’s just not me—and if I’m being real, it’s probably not you either.

Years ago, I worked with a coach who told me point-blank that my kind, genuine demeanor was holding me back. “You’ve got to tap into your baddie energy if you want to grow,” she said. “You’ll always get the short end of the stick if you stay this nice.” I remember sitting there, heart sinking a bit, thinking: Why does kindness have to be a liability?

It didn’t sit right with me then, and it doesn’t now. Because here’s the truth—I’m not built to tear others down or use people to get ahead. It’s not part of my DNA. I believe in integrity, in treating people with respect, in showing up as my authentic self—even when the world says that’s “too soft.” And guess what? I’ve still grown. My business has flourished, not because I’ve stepped on others to climb higher, but because I’ve chosen to build relationships rooted in trust, kindness, and mutual care.

Kindness Is a Strategy

Kindness doesn’t mean being a pushover. It means leading with empathy and doing what’s right, even when it’s hard. People remember how you treat them far longer than they remember your marketing pitch or your price point. Clients, customers, and partners are drawn to genuine warmth—because it’s rare. When you treat people well, you earn something that no amount of hustle can buy: loyalty.

Proverbs 11:3 reminds us, “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” When your business practices are guided by honesty and integrity, you never have to worry about looking over your shoulder or maintaining an act. There’s peace in that—and peace is priceless.

Growing with Grace

If you want to grow your business while keeping your heart soft and your conscience clear, here’s what’s worked for me:

• Build relationships before transactions. Take time to connect with people genuinely. Ask how they’re doing, not just what they can do for you.

• Be transparent. Whether it’s pricing, timelines, or expectations—people appreciate honesty, even when it’s not what they want to hear.

• Celebrate others. There’s room for everyone to succeed. When one woman wins, we all do. Cheer loudly for others—it doesn’t dim your own light.

• Stay rooted in prayer. Before making big decisions, pause and ask God for discernment. He’ll show you the right path every time.

• Don’t compromise your values for visibility. God will open doors no “baddie energy” ever could.

The Truth About “Nice”

Being kind doesn’t mean you lack boundaries. It means you choose compassion without letting others walk all over you. Jesus was kind, but He was also firm and fearless. He led with love and truth—and that’s the kind of leadership this world needs more of.

You can be strong and gentle. Successful and humble. Ambitious and kind. These things are not opposites—they’re the sweet spot where faith-driven success thrives.

A Challenge for You

This week, I challenge you to do business differently. Lead with grace. Make one decision purely out of kindness, not strategy. Encourage someone who might be struggling. Forgive someone who’s wronged you. Offer help without expecting anything in return.

And watch what happens. God blesses the hearts that serve with integrity. Remember—nice gals don’t finish last. They finish fulfilled, faithful, and favored.