What if one of the greatest things you could do for yourself was to stop thinking about yourself?
I know that sounds counterintuitive, especially in a world that constantly encourages us to focus on our goals, our success, and our happiness. But there’s something fascinating about the science of giving that I think more people need to understand.
When you help someone else, you’re not the only one changing their life. You’re changing yours, too.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, involving nearly 13,000 adults over age 50, found that people who volunteered at least 100 hours annually had a lower risk of mortality, greater optimism, a stronger sense of purpose, and fewer depressive symptoms compared with nonvolunteers.
Those are associations, not proof that volunteering causes every benefit. But they’re certainly worth paying attention to, and here’s something else –
Research examining generosity across 136 countries found that spending money to benefit others was consistently associated with greater happiness. Additional experiments supported the idea that giving can actually improve our emotional well-being.
Think about that for a moment…
We spend enormous amounts of time and money searching for happiness, meaning, and fulfillment, while overlooking one of the most accessible opportunities available to us; helping another human being!!
I’ve experienced this throughout my life and my coaching career. Whenever I’m struggling with something, one of the first things I do is look for someone I can help. It might be a conversation, sharing a resource, offering encouragement, or helping someone overcome a challenge.
When I do, something happens…
My perspective expands. I reconnect with my purpose. I stop obsessing over what isn’t working and start recognizing the value I can bring to the world.
And let’s be clear, you don’t need to volunteer 100 hours or donate thousands of dollars to begin experiencing the personal rewards of generosity. Start with one meaningful act of kindness.
What if the greatest opportunity you’re overlooking isn’t something you need to receive, but something you have the ability to give?
This week, I challenge you to find someone you can help without expecting anything in return. You might be surprised by how much you gain.
#Leadership #PersonalGrowth #Gratitude #GivingBack
