50 Of The Most Wholesome Christmas Posts That May Restore Your Faith In Humanity

Earlier, Bored Panda spoke about the spirit of giving and altruism with priest and psychologist Dr. Fraser Watts, as well as with Vanessa King, the Head of Psychology at ‘Action for Happiness.’

Dr. Watts highlighted that we should put ourselves in the shoes of our loved ones if we ever receive a gift that we’re not entirely satisfied with. Imagining their perspective and what made them choose a particular gift for you will make you appreciate the spirit in which they gave it to you. The effort and love they put into the gift are usually worth far, far more than the physical thing hiding behind the Santa-spangled wrapping paper.

Meanwhile, King, from ‘Action for Happiness,’ explained that we keep ourselves happy by going out of our way to help others. Altruism has an evolutionary basis, too.

Since we’re a social species and we live in groups, doing things for each other (and with each other) helps keep our relationships strong and builds trust. Our bodies reward us for being social and helpful. “When we do things for others, it activates the reward center in the brain, so when we give a gift, it feels the same as receiving a gift,” King said to Bored Panda.

What’s more, even tiny altruistic actions, if done every day, can turn into lifetime habits. So if you feel like you haven’t done enough for others this year, fear not—small shifts in your behavior can turn you into a more caring person that your community will adore.