How Helping Others Helps Ourselves

How Helping Others Helps Ourselves
How Helping Others Helps Ourselves
Kindness comes in many forms. A smile, a nod of encouragement, a listening ear. While they may seem small, one kind gesture can change someone's entire day. Best of all, it not only helps others, but it helps the giver as well!

Kindness comes in many forms. A smile, a nod of encouragement, a listening ear. While they may seem small, one kind gesture can change someone's entire day. Best of all, it not only helps others, but it helps the giver as well! Many researchers have found that when you have a purpose beyond yourself, you not only improve the life of others, but you can improve your own physical and mental health as well!

Take giving back for example. When we give back to others, we promote happiness and gratitude in ourself (and of course the receiver). Happiness encourages giving back. This creates a beautfiul snowball effect. Not only does this encourage the giver to continue giving back, but also the receiver as well - creating a world focused on evoking happiness and gratitude.  

Ways to Give Back

While monetary gifts are great, not all of us can afford to donate money or presents. With that in mind, here is a list of cheap or free ways to give back and help improve your emotional state while you’re at it.


Inexpensive Gestures:

  • Buy someone a coffee
  • Bring a non-perishable food item to a food bank (perhaps an item you already have at home)
  • Buy a toy and bring it to your local hospital or shelter (can be something from the dollar store)
  • Donate clothes you no longer wear to the nearest second-hand store

Free Gestures:

  • Connect with a friend you think needs support
  • Visit a senior centre/retirement home and spend time with the elders (ie. play cards/music or read a book)
  • Spend time with your grandparents
  • Shovel your neighbour’s driveway
  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen
  • Organize a winter clothing/coat drive in your community for a shelter or organization
  • Spend time at an animal shelter

Daily gestures:

  • Hold the door for the person behind you
  • Give up your seat on the bus
  • Give someone your spot in line
  • Carry someone’s groceries out to their car
  • Smile and say hello to someone on the street
  • Listen attentively and wholeheartedly

Remember, life can be challenging any month of the year. One kind gesture can change everything and it starts with you! :)


For more information: 

Anik, L., Aknin, L., Norton, M., & Dunn, E. (2009). Feeling good about giving: The benefits (and costs) of self-interested charitable behavior.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2017/07/10/the-science-of-giving-back-how-having-a-purpose-is-good-for-body-and-brain/#2b5ac3886146 

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