November and December usher in some of the busiest months of the year between holidays, family gatherings, travel, and school or work events. This is a time of year during which we reflect on the year behind us, focus on making goals for the year ahead, and take time to be grateful for everything good in our lives. Beyond expressing gratitude around this time of year (and always!), it’s also a time of giving back.
There’s a reason giving back makes you feel good. Research shows that the act of giving triggers the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which lead to a “helper’s high” and increased personal satisfaction.
Additionally, engaging in acts of service or giving back can improve your mood and fight off symptoms of depression and reduce stress and anxiety. This can result in actual physical benefits like decreased blood pressure and a strengthened immune system!
So we already know that giving back or paying it forward through acts of kindness not only make you feel good, but can actually improve your overall health and well-being! But how and where can you start?
Start small, in the community that surrounds you. You don’t have to think globally just yet. There’s plenty of need in your own neighborhood! That might mean researching local foodbanks or charities, reaching out, and finding out how you can help through a donation of your time or money.
Act when you feel that nudge. Research shows that you should act immediately when you get an idea for an act of kindness. We are more likely to talk ourselves out of it if we sit on it or wait, especially since some acts of kindness require you to step out of your comfort zone a bit. For more impact, if the idea hits, just do it! Need some ideas for simple ways to show kindness?
- Pay for the person behind you in line at the cafe or in the drive through next time you’re picking up your morning coffee!
- Bring a surprise beverage or treat to your gym coach next time you join a class.
- Leave a kind note of encouragement for a friend or loved one; tuck it into their work bag or lunch for a midday surprise.
- Call a friend or family member that you think of often but haven’t connected with in ages for no reason other than to say hi.
- Give a genuine compliment to another athlete when you notice them hitting a milestone or improving on an area they’ve been working on.
- And I cannot claim this idea as my own, as I’m sure I saw it in a video or read it in a comment online, but it’s an epic way to make someone’s day in an inexpensive yet effective manner. Next time you’re grocery shopping and think to yourself that the individual checking you out or bagging your items looks tired and in need of a pick me up, say, “I need to buy some candy, but I’m not sure which one to get. What’s your favorite?” (gesturing to the assortment of treats displayed next to the check out lane). If they’re willing to engage, they’ll recommend their favorite and you can add it to your pile of things on the conveyor belt, thanking them for their helpful suggestion. Once they scan and charge you for the candy they recommended, you get to turn around and give it to them, explaining that you actually bought it for them! Let the joy and smiles ensue. Instant mood boost for you and them! You’ve just got to try it.
During this busiest time of year, don’t forget that it’s also a season of giving. And that by giving, you have the opportunity to improve your mood and your physical wellbeing while improving the lives of others too. And that’s a win-win situation.
Ready to start paying it forward for your health? Try one of those suggestions above or something completely on your own.
