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Benefits of selflessness
“Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”
- Albert Einstein
One of the quickest and easiest ways we can elevate our mood and sense of purpose is to help others. It does not matter what we do, as long as we are doing it to benefit others. It can be as simple as holding the door open for the customer behind us, to something more substantial like donating our time or money to our favorite causes. It feels good to help others. It’s a win-win situation where everyone benefits. Science even tells us helping others leads to less depression, increased happiness, decreased stress levels and improved self-esteem. A convincing reason to be more giving toward others is that there are so many benefits!
One of the great benefits in being of service to others is how we are rewarded with the happy feel good chemicals dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin. The act of giving has shown to activate the reward center of the brain, which releases endorphins, creating what has been termed the helper’s high. It’s similar to how the runner’s high works, just less sweaty. While the pleasure we receive from helping others is great, it does not compare to the pleasure we are able to give others through our selfless acts. We also create stronger relationships too!
Think of all the people and organizations you have helped out in some way. Think of…
