Culture

How To Draw The Line Between Being Nice And Being A Pushover

The word “nice” is defined in the dictionary as one who is likeable, pleasant, or kind. It’s such a simple word — one of the first we learn to describe something we like or find pleasing. But today’s definition of “nice” has shifted into entirely new territory.

By Mia C. Gonzalez3 min read
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“Be nice” — it’s one of the first things we’re taught by our mothers growing up, especially as little girls. Any sign of a dispute, small or large, between us and a sibling, and we’d immediately hear “Be nice to your little sister!” resounding from the other room. And a few years later, as we started school, our teacher would reinforce the importance of being nice, drilling the age-old saying into our heads, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”