|
The Gift of Giving
Giving involves not only sharing resources on a large scale but also small acts such as donating time, helping neighbors, making care packages, providing meal trains, giving thoughtfully, supporting causes, and offering encouragement. Finding joy in assisting others without expecting anything in return is a gift. Giving to others shifts focus from a personal, inward focus to an outward, generous act.
There are multiple benefits to giving, including empathy, social connection, and the satisfaction of making a tangible impact. The psychological benefit is called the “helper’s high”, a neurochemical response leading to emotional well-being by facilitating joy that improves mood and provides happiness. Acts of generosity reduce stress and enhance self-efficacy, activating the brain’s reward center.
Another gift of giving includes reciprocity. There is a drive to give back after receiving a positive interaction, which activates compassion. When we feel compassionate towards another, we are, in a way, being kind to ourselves.
For example, Joe and Lydia were so touched by receiving kind words of support from their community after their daughter passed away that they wanted to pay that kindness forward through a tangible impact. In lieu of memorial flowers, they asked others to donate to causes their daughter supported. The effect was a tangible difference in the lives of those who benefited from generosity through nonprofits. And the parents, Joe and Lydia, found intrinsic value in honoring their daughter's memory.
This season, we encourage you to spread a warm, fuzzy feeling by giving kindness. We may all benefit from experiencing a warmer glow during this holiday. The gift of giving brings people closer together and spreads happiness.
| 
