BUFFALO, N.Y. — It’s a new year, and a lot of people want to revamp themselves. The focus tends to be on a healthy diet and exercise. What about just being a kinder, more patient person? In the hustle and bustle of life, that can go by the wayside.

Ruth Caro Mack is an author who went to Buffalo State. While she was studying psychology, she switched gears to study early childhood development. She also wrote the book "The Precious Gift of Patience."

The story is about a little girl named Willow. She always puts her friends, family and classmates first. One day, she is tested and starts wondering if her kindness is being taken advantage of. She then learns an important lesson in patience. It’s something that will resonate with many people in a society where we expect immediate gratification.

Mack says in the end, kindness always finds a way.

“Although sometimes we may go through certain things and face challenges, it's OK; just wait," said Ruth. "Because at the end of the day, the seeds that you're planting with your kindness are going to blossom and eventually greet you at the end."

The book is bilingual. On Mack's website, there are activity books for kids of all ages. This is the first in a series of books she hopes to publish.

Part of her proceeds are used to donate her books, eventually doing mission trips.

Mack says kindness doesn’t have to be some grand gesture. It’s as simple, she noted, as smiling and saying hello, even writing a note with positive quotes or affirmations that can show gratitude and appreciation toward their friends or family.