Eight years ago, March 20 was established as the annual International Day of Happiness. This was in response to a recognition by the United Nations that happiness is a ‘fundamental human goal’.
There are many things that we can do to increase our happiness, such as smiling more, getting plenty of sleep, and practicing gratitude. The act of giving, however, is perhaps the most important practice you can do if you want to build your own happiness. Why is this? Well, giving not only improves your own mood, but it can improve someone else’s mood too!
When you give to others, your generosity is likely to be returned, which begins an amazing giving cycle where you feel encouraged to give once again – an enriching positive feedback loop. It’s important to remember that the act of giving doesn’t have to be in the form of materialistic things like donations or presents. You can also ‘give’ someone the gift of laughter, or ‘give’ them hope when they’re feeling down. Don’t know where to start? Here’s an incomplete list, just to get you thinking – we’re sure you can come up with thousands more if you think about it!
Smile and be friendly.
Sometimes a simple little thing like this can put a smile and warm feeling in someone else’s heart, and make their day a little better. They might then do the same for others.
Stop to help. The next time you see someone pulled over with a flat tyre, or somehow in need of help, stop and ask how you can help. Sometimes all they need is a push, or the use of your mobile phone.
Teach.
Take the time to teach someone a skill you know. This could be teaching your grandma to use email, teaching your child to ride a bike, or teaching your co-worker a valuable computer skill.
Lend your ear.
Often someone who is sad, depressed, angry, or frustrated just needs someone who will listen. Venting and talking through an issue is a huge help.
Do a chore.
Something small or big, like cleaning up, or washing a car, doing the dishes or cutting a lawn.
Lend your voice.
Often the powerless in our world need someone to speak up for them. You don’t have to take on that cause by yourself, but join others in signing a petition, writing letters, and otherwise making a need heard.
Love.
Simply finding ways to express your love to others, whether it be your partner, child, friend, co-worker, or a complete stranger, just express your love! A kind word, spending time, showing little kindnesses… it all matters more than you know.
At Infinite Care, we are in the business of giving everyday! No act of giving to our residents is too large or too small, and everything we do for them makes a difference in their lives. How lucky are we?
Think how can you give today… and everyday!
