The joy of giving and how it can make you happier in the long run

Let’s face it - in the times of the global pandemic, the world can seem like a lonely, dark place. But fear not, giving might be just the thing that will boost your happiness. Studies indicate that the very act of giving boosts your happiness, health, and sense of well-being. That’s why we find that it’s so important to give! Here are some of our favourite reasons why:

Giving inspires giving
Perpetuating the cycle of giving makes the world a better, more humane place. By being a good role-model for people around you, you will inspire the will to give in others. Volunteering your time, money or energy to help others doesn’t just make the world better—it also makes you happier.

Giving teaches you to be more responsible
There is no reason why you shouldn’t give for a good cause or a gift to support a loved one throughout tough times. Your own financial standing might be an issue, but if you make the choice to give, you will realise you can actually live without certain things.

Giving is good for your self-worth and overall happiness
It might be selfish - but the effect of seeing a smile on someone’s faces appreciating your gift can be a great positivity booster. In fact, giving can promote lasting happiness, according to research forthcoming in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science. In two studies, psychology researchers Ed O'Brien (University of Chicago Booth School of Business) and Samantha Kassirer (Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management) found that participants' happiness did not decline, or declined much slower, if they repeatedly bestowed gifts on others versus repeatedly receiving those same gifts themselves.

So next time you are feeling a little down - why not find a charity or another good cause you’d be happy to support or give a gift to a loved one. You’ll make sure to put a smile on their face - and your own!