Caring about others is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves. It gives us good feelings, it gives others good feelings, and, corny as it sounds, it makes the world a better place. It certainly makes life way more pleasant.
There’s a couple of really easy ways to care for others and, at the same time, de-stress ourselves. We can volunteer our time to help others and we can simply be kind and considerate to the people we encounter in our daily lives. Help load the groceries in someone’s car, just smile at someone you pass on the street.
When we do things for others, we’re not only making an actual difference in their lives, but we are also making a physical and perceptual difference in our own lives. Caring for others is full of benefits. When we help others, our brains release endorphins which make us feel good and up our moods. When we’re kind and compassionate to others, it makes them feel good, and it can even make them more likely to help others in the future. It can cascade all the way to helping us to feel more connected to our communities, more personally fulfilled, and happier.
So next time you have the opportunity to do something for someone, don't hesitate. It's one of the best things you can do for yourself.
“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.” Robin Williams