Philanthropy is primarily about being generous and spreading goodwill. As you share time and resources for the betterment of others, your welfare is ideally not your first concern. Philanthropic acts that are driven by what you will gain from it are hardly genuine and ruin the purpose of the deed.
If you are a true philanthropist, you offer what you can without expecting anything in return. The end goal of the services you do is to improve and enrich the lives of other people. The most wonderful thing about it is that you often receive more than what you originally gave. As they say, every act of kindness comes back tenfold. Just read on to see how philanthropy improves your physical, emotional and mental well-being.
Prevents Ailments
Pills and supplements can help you stay in the pinnacle of health. However, if you want a natural way to keep diseases away, you may want to join a group that will allow you to give back to society. Numerous studies have proven that being charitable can help prevent illnesses such as hypertension, heart problems and dementia.
The health benefits of philanthropy can also result in a longer lifespan, as shown by a study conducted by researchers from the University of Michigan and published by the American Psychological Association (APA). This long-term study that followed a group of individuals revealed that those who volunteered for altruistic reasons live longer than those who volunteered seeking personal satisfaction.
Fights Stress
If you are always annoyed or upset, engaging in charitable activities can be an effective mood booster. When you set out to do something for others, you get preoccupied with new things that may lighten the mood. Furthermore, the feeling of satisfaction you get from knowing that you are doing something worthy makes you feel good about yourself.
The happiness factor involved in philanthropy is not based on a hunch, as research suggests a clear link to happiness and philanthropy. A study conducted by a group of psychologists from the University of British Columbia in Canada and the Harvard Business School in Boston found out that people who donate money to charity are happier compared to people who only choose to spend for themselves.
Builds Confidence.
Your simplest act may mean the world to a person in need. The thought that you can make such a huge difference for others will make you realize that you can do even greater things. If you are suffering from low self-esteem and are feeling down on your luck, it is a good idea to spend some time doing altruistic activities. Moreover, altruistic efforts are like learning sessions, so you increase your knowledge and sharpen your intellect, which can further build your confidence.
Develops Gratefulness.
Philanthropy will sometimes expose you to the not-so-pleasant things in life such as sickness, poverty or abuse. Instead of making you feel down or upset, it can instead open your eyes to all your blessings and develop a sense of gratitude. Gratefulness is the key to an optimistic and cheerful attitude that ultimately improves our well-being.
Fosters Relationships.
Humans have an intrinsic need to connect to others and philanthropy is a great way to reach out to others. The social interaction that takes place as you do volunteer work can result in genuine friendships. The positive relationships you form will enhance your sense of purpose in life.
The reasons given above show that altruism is a virtue worth pursuing for the right reasons. As you consider the needs of others before your own, the universe sees every good deed you do. In time, you will receive rewards for your selfless endeavors.
