There’s a subtle but firm line between being a good person and just pretending to be one.
This line? It’s all about consistency. Being a good person isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about the little things we do on a regular basis.
If you’re doing these 8 things regularly, you’re showing the world that you’re not just putting on an act – you’re genuinely good to the core. So, let’s dig into them, shall we?
1) You practice active listening
Being a good person isn’t just about what you do, it’s also about how you make others feel.
And one of the best ways to make someone feel valued is by truly listening to them. This is called active listening, a concept that goes beyond simply hearing the words someone is saying.
Active listening involves giving your full attention to the speaker, showing empathy, and responding thoughtfully. It also includes respecting their perspective, even if you don’t necessarily agree with it.
Sure, it’s easy to nod along while someone’s talking, but are you really taking in what they’re saying? Are you offering thoughtful responses and asking follow-up questions?
Active listening shows respect and consideration for others. If you’re practicing this on a regular basis, it’s a sure sign that you’re a genuinely good person. But remember, it’s important to be sincere – most people can spot a fake listener from a mile away.
2) You’re a firm believer in second chances
I’ve learned over time that everyone messes up now and then.
Just the other day, my colleague forgot to include me in a meeting for a project that I contributed a lot to. Initially, I was frustrated — this basically meant I didn’t get credit for my hard work.
I could have written him off for that and stewed in resentment, thinking “He must have done that on purpose!” But then I remembered how stressed he’s been with work lately.
So instead of getting angry or holding a grudge, I decided to give the benefit of the doubt. I offered my help in managing his calendar for the next week, and he gratefully accepted.
Being quick to forgive and offering second chances is a sign of a good person. We’ve all been there, making mistakes when we’re overwhelmed or just having a bad day. Genuinely good people remember that, and don’t hold grudges.
3) You’re kind to animals
It may seem like a small thing, but how a person treats animals can often be a reflection of their true character.
Studies have suggested that people who are kind to animals are also more likely to be empathetic and compassionate towards humans. This isn’t just about owning pets, it also includes how you interact with animals in the wild.
Whether it’s feeding stray cats in your neighborhood, volunteering at your local animal shelter, or simply taking the time to appreciate the nature around you, showing kindness to all living creatures is a sure sign of a good person.
4) You’re always there for others
Being a good person often comes down to one simple thing: reliability.
It’s about being there for others, whether it’s in times of joy or in times of distress. It’s about keeping your promises and showing up when you say you will.
If you’re the person your friends and family can always count on, the one who steps in when everyone else steps out, rest assured you’re a truly valuable human being.
It’s about more than just being present; it’s about providing emotional support, offering help and making sacrifices for the benefit of others.
5) You’re genuinely happy for others
One of the biggest signs of a good person is the ability to feel genuine happiness for other people’s successes.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of jealousy or bitterness, especially in today’s world where everyone’s achievements are broadcasted on social media.
But if you can push past that and feel joy when your friend gets that promotion or your sibling gets engaged, that’s a sign of a truly good person.
This doesn’t mean you can’t have ambitions or goals of your own. Or even that you can never feel a twinge of jealousy. We’re all human, after all.
But you never let it rule you. You consciously choose to have a big enough heart to share in the happiness of others, even when you’re still working towards your own dreams.
This shows that you’re not just self-focused, but also care about the wellbeing and happiness of those around you.
6) You go the extra mile to help
There’s a warmth that fills your heart when you go out of your way to lend a hand. It’s not about getting anything in return, but simply the satisfaction of making a difference in someone else’s life.
Maybe it’s helping an elderly neighbor with their groceries, or volunteering your time at a local charity. These acts of kindness might seem small, but they can mean the world to someone else.
The world can be a tough place, and it’s often the small acts of kindness that bring the most light. If you’re someone who consistently goes the extra mile to help others, know that you’re making a difference.
7) You’re not afraid to admit when you’re wrong
As I’ve already stressed, nobody’s perfect — even really good people. We all have moments when we make mistakes or act in ways we’re not proud of. What matters is how we handle these moments.
I remember a time when I really messed up at work, and that cost the company an important client. It was a tough pill to swallow. But instead of trying to shift the blame, I owned up to my mistake, apologized, and took steps to ensure it wouldn’t happen again.
Admitting when you’re wrong shows humility and maturity. It’s not always easy to do, but it’s a crucial part of personal growth, and embracing your best and kindest self.
8) You respect differences
We live in a diverse world, full of different cultures, beliefs, and opinions. Being a good person means respecting these differences, even when you don’t necessarily agree with them.
It’s about understanding that everyone has their own unique perspective shaped by their experiences. It’s about showing kindness and tolerance towards those who see the world differently than you do.
So consider this: can you listen to a differing opinion without getting defensive? Can you respect those beliefs without belittling them, even privately in your mind?
If you answered yes, you’re showing an open-mindedness and a level of empathy that is truly commendable.
Final thoughts: It’s about the journey
When it comes to being a good person, it’s not about reaching a final destination. It’s about the journey – the everyday choices we make, the behaviors we exhibit and the habits we cultivate.
The 14th Dalai Lama once said, “The true essence of humankind is kindness; there are other qualities which come from education or knowledge, but it is essential, if one wishes to be a genuine human being and impart satisfying meaning to one’s existence, to have a good heart.”
Being a good person isn’t about perfection. It’s about striving each day to be a little kinder, a little more understanding, a little more forgiving. It’s about acknowledging our faults and working on them. It’s about taking small steps towards a larger goal.
If you’re doing these 8 things regularly, you’re not just on your way to becoming a good person – you already are one. But remember, you’re not done yet. A good and fulfilling life comes from continuing that journey of growth and striving to be better each day.