By John Lancaster Spalding
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
“Do definite good; first of all to yourself, then to definite persons.” This John Lancaster Spalding quote about kindness offers a powerful starting point for anyone hoping to make a positive difference in their life and in the world around them. The words stand out for their clarity and practicality—an invitation to focus on well-defined acts of kindness and responsibility. The quote has emotional weight and practical value, especially for those looking to build better habits and more meaningful connections.
What Does This Quote Mean?
At its core, the quote asks us to be intentional in our actions: “Do definite good; first of all to yourself, then to definite persons.” Unlike vague or general advice to “be good,” this John Lancaster Spalding quote about kindness is sharply focused. The phrase “definite good” means doing specific, concrete things that benefit yourself and others, rather than simply wishing for good or thinking abstractly about it.
The instruction to begin with yourself is meaningful. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Spalding is not suggesting selfishness, but rather recognizing your own needs as the foundation for helping others. When you take care of yourself—your well-being, values, health, and growth—you build a base of strength and stability. This is the starting point for genuine, lasting kindness.
The second half, “then to definite persons,” takes the idea further. Rather than trying to save the whole world in theory, Spalding starts close to home—specific people in your life who you can actually reach. Friends, family, coworkers, neighbors. Doing good for these people is more meaningful and often more challenging than good intentions aimed at no one in particular.
Overall, this quote is about practical kindness—a call to action that starts with you and radiates out, focusing on real needs and real people. Its wisdom lies in guiding us toward targeted, actionable good deeds that truly matter.
How Can You Use This Quote in Life?
Putting this John Lancaster Spalding quote about kindness into action can transform both your outlook and your everyday routine. Here are practical ways to live by its message:
1. Prioritize self-care without guilt.
Taking care of yourself is not selfish, but essential. Begin with basics: eat nourishing food, get enough sleep, and stay active. Take time to reflect on your emotions and practice gratitude for your achievements. When you attend to your own needs, your energy and patience grow, making you better equipped to help others.
2. Set clear intentions for helping others.
Choose specific people to support or cheer on each week. Perhaps you know a friend who needs someone to listen, or a colleague who could use encouragement. Focus your energy on giving real help to real individuals, instead of scattering your attention too broadly.
3. Practice small, tangible acts of kindness.
Tidy up for a family member without being asked. Bring coffee to a coworker. Check in on a neighbor who might be struggling. Even small, definite actions can create a ripple effect of positivity that reaches further than you might expect.
4. Set boundaries so you don’t burn out.
Remember, doing “definite good” includes recognizing your limits. Sometimes, saying no is the best way you can care for yourself and ensure that your help to others remains sincere, not resented or forced.
5. Reflect and adjust regularly.
Every so often, ask yourself: Are your actions bringing real benefit to yourself and those around you? If you notice habits that drain rather than give energy, reassess. Adjust your goals so your efforts remain meaningful and purposeful.
Real-life examples make this philosophy tangible. A parent opts to take a brief walk alone to recharge before returning to family life with more patience. A student helps a struggling classmate by sharing good notes, after making sure they have grasped the material themselves. An employee supports a teammate on a big project, having first managed their own workload to avoid stress and resentment.
By following the structure in this John Lancaster Spalding quote about kindness—starting within, then reaching out with clear purpose—you build a cycle of energy and compassion that benefits everyone involved.
✨ The Motivation Message
You have the tools to make a real, lasting difference in your life and the lives of others! Imagine how powerful you could become by taking small, definite steps each day—starting with caring for yourself, then spreading kindness to those around you. You’re not being selfish when you focus on your own well-being; you’re getting stronger at giving to others.
When you choose to act with intention, even the tiniest deed can make someone’s heavy day lighter or bring a fresh burst of hope. 🌱 It all starts with one choice, one person, one act of goodness. The world needs what only YOU can bring. Embrace this quote as a daily reminder that you matter—and your kindness matters even more!
So, ask yourself today: What is one definite good thing I can do—first for myself, then for someone specific? Take that first tiny leap. The impact may surprise you! 🚀
About the Author
John Lancaster Spalding, who was born in 1840 and died in 1916, was an influential American Catholic bishop, educator, and prolific writer. He dedicated much of his life to promoting accessible education, social justice, and moral responsibility. As the first bishop of Peoria, Illinois, Spalding helped create systems and schools that focused on both personal development and community service.
Known for his clear thinking and practical advice, John Lancaster Spalding often wrote about the importance of personal integrity, purposeful action, and the value of focusing on real, everyday goodness. His worldview emphasized growth rooted in faith, reflection, and meaningful relationships. The quote “Do definite good; first of all to yourself, then to definite persons” captures his belief that genuine charity and positive change begin on a personal level and expand from there.
Spalding’s legacy is one of direct action, advocating for inner strength as the starting point for all outward kindness. His words continue to resonate, challenging people to link self-respect with service and to live out kindness in concrete ways.
