K indness is something we try to inculcate in children from a very young age. The concept of paying it forward is a vital part of human communities. While no one can ascertain when exactly it began, we do know that altruism feels good! The idea is simple. Someone does something generous for you and instead of paying that person back, you pay the generosity forward. Instead of giving back to the person who did a nice deed for you, you repay the kindness by giving back to somebody else. Selflessness isn’t about boosting your ego or an attempt at winning any potential future favours. There is no hidden agenda or expectation. It is simply about doing something good for someone without trying to get anything out of it for yourself . To help others is a vital part of being human. It gives us a sense of purpose. It adds value and meaning to our lives and enriches others’ lives in the process. The person who you helped becomes inspired by your generosity and decides to pay it forward to someone else. It’s a virtuous cycle - of receiving good and giving good. Happier people give more and giving more makes people happier.
Now, I understand if you didn’t set out to gain anything from being altruistic. However, lucky for you, you do have something to gain! Acts of altruism have been shown to increase a person’s physical and mental well being. Here’s how:
They increase your self-esteem.
Reduce the risk of getting depressed.
Provides you with a sense of purpose in life.
Lower your blood pressure.
Decreases the level of stress.
So the next time you see someone in need, give back. Start small - practise gratitude . Make someone smile. It is the little actions that make a big difference. And the big actions, of course, do make a huge difference. If you have the ability to help the world during this pandemic, ForBetterCommunity urges you to do so. So many people around the world could have their world be made a lot brighter. Give back, it feels good.