- Group Insurance Commission
We all have an anecdote about how being nice to someone made us feel good. Now, science is beginning to help us understand why. A British study found that when people aged 18 to 60 carried out random acts of kindness every day for 10 days, they reported higher life satisfaction than those who didn’t.* Kindness: It’s a win-win.
Share the love
In the spirit of kindness, here are 7 simple ways to spread joy and, in turn, feel that joy yourself.
1. Tell someone they’re doing a great job
From leaving a thank-you note for your mail carrier to writing an online review about great service, noticing the work someone is putting in and saying thank you can make a huge difference in their day.
2. Let someone else go first
Slowing down often opens opportunities to be kind. Maybe it’s letting a car merge in front of you in traffic. Or letting a person with fewer items at the grocery store check out before you. There are countless ways being a little patient can make all the difference to someone else.
3. Give something other than money
What do you own that you can give away? Consider carrying items like granola bars or new socks to share with others. Or pack up used amenities that are still in good condition, like towels and sheets to give to animal shelters.
4. Pay someone a compliment
It’s human nature to think that when someone is looking at you, they’re judging you. Flip this perception on its head. The next time you’re loving a stranger’s style, let them know.
5. Do someone else’s chores
Whether it’s a roommate, family member or colleague, everyone gets overwhelmed. Sometimes doing something small, like the dishes, when it’s not your turn can help someone else catch their breath.
6. Offer up your time
Everyone needs a break sometimes. If you know someone with kids or pets, offering to babysit or pet sit for free can be a huge help. Help someone clean out their closet, weed their garden or even move to a new place.
7. Get in touch
Lots of people touch our lives without ever really knowing their impact. If there’s an old teacher, coach or friend who changed your life, send them a message of gratitude. It could be exactly what they need that day.
Discover the full range of benefits available to Commonwealth of Massachusetts employees and their immediate family members who are eligible for GIC benefits with the Mass4YOU Employee Assistance Program. Visit liveandworkwell.com and use access code: mass4you. You may also call 1-844-263-1982, TTY 711.
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