Psychological research has examined the positive effects of altruistic behavior in its many aspects: compassion, kindness, the desire to help others, etc. Altruistic behavior greatly increases well-being, happiness, health, and the longevity of those engaging in it (Post, 2005).
For instance, volunteer work has been found to enhance various different aspects of well-being, such as life satisfaction, self-esteem, sense of control over one's own life, effectively increasing physical health and reducing depression (Thoits & Hewitt, 2001).
A generous life is a happier and healthier one.
WHAT ARE CHAINS OF ALTRUISM?
Starting a chain of altruism is really easy. Just do something nice for another
person. That can be a friend, your neighbor, your flatmate, or a total
stranger. Here is a list of ideas.
Also check out what other people did.
Once you've done something nice for someone else, ask them to return the
favor, not to you, but to another person! That way good deeds are passed
from one person to the next!
Join our -group and start a chain! :)
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References:
Post, S. G. (2005). Altruism, happiness, and health: It's good to be good. International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 12(2), 66-77.
Thoits, P. A., & Hewitt, L. N. (2001). Volunteer work and well-being. Journal of health and social behavior, 115-131.