Have you ever noticed that feeling you get when you do something for somebody else? That little lift you get? That little burst of energy?
It’s such a clean, strong feeling, even when it only lasts a second or two. That’s what giving does for us. The boost it generates is life’s way of telling us that easing the way for someone else makes us happier, too.
That’s what “the golden rule” is all about. Treating others the way you’d want to be treated makes for increased happiness all the way around.
We’re happy when others help us when we need it, and when can help others, we’re made happier, too.
Giving stimulates our sense of our capability. When we respond to somebody’s need we feel connected to our hearts, the place from which giving rises,
Happiness researchers Foster and Hooks have this to say about giving:
“True giving, radiant giving, comes from the same inner place as deep happiness. It’s a desire to share our personal sense of worth and values.
“It’s having the self-esteem to feel that what we have to offer is valuable—our advice, wisdom, expertise, skills, physical labor.
“The manner in which we give these gifts is a reflection of who we are.”
That’s a very special way of giving. It’s not giving from a sense of obligation, and especially it’s not giving from a sense of guilt or as a compensation for feeling unworthy in some way. It’s giving for the sheer joy and beauty of giving; it’s giving from a full heart.
The highest level of giving, Foster and Hicks say, is giving in a way that helps other people live better, more independently and more effectively.
They found that many of the happy people they studied volunteered time in their communities working for causes they considered worthwhile. Some acted as mentors. Some spent time counseling family or community members.
Sometimes their giving was the habitual performance of kindnesses, stepping up whenever they saw a way to fill a need or to ease someone’s way. Sometimes they simply offered encouragement or gave appreciation to others, or brightened others’ days with a genuine smile.
Happy people, Foster and Hicks say, “give because it is a decree of their heart, letting their internal sense of contentment and joy overflow into the world.”
One of the most fulfilling ways to give to others is simply to share what you love. Share your passions. Whether you’re into music or carpentry, reading, gardening, exercising, playing chess—whatever you love, engage somebody else in it.
The opportunities for giving are endless. It’s simply a matter of being aware of them. Learn to find them by asking yourself, “What can I offer?” “How can I help?” “Whose life can I support?” “Whose day can I brighten?”
Share your skills, your knowledge, your emotional support, material items, money or time. Give of them freely, with joy, and you’ll find the giving returns more rewards than you could ever anticipate.
It builds bonds. It creates trust. It enhances life both for the recipient of your sharing and for you.
As a tool for enriching your happiness, it ranks as one of the most powerful. Make a point of noticing your giving this week and watch what happens inside you.
Wishing you a week of happy-hearted giving!
Warmly,
Susan
Image by Harish Sharma from Pixabay