Is Kindness Contagious? Yes, It Is!
Jul 05, 2020
I’ve already touched on the fact that kindness has a way of spreading. When you do a good deed, it’s likely the recipient will go on to also help someone. This is simply human nature. As with most behavior, there’s actually science behind the concept. One single act can go on to inspire many more. The information below will demonstrate how the kindness contagion works, its benefits, and how you can keep the cycle moving forward.
The Science Behind It
We've already learned about “helper’s high.” It’s that warm fuzzy feeling you get when you help someone. This simple concept is one reason why kindness is so contagious. Once you’ve shown generosity to someone and gotten that feeling of fulfillment, you want more. Sure, it’s a bit egocentric, but the end result is positive. This can happen through simply viewing acts of kindness as well. When others see you doing good, they are often inspired to do the same. This is a concept known as “moral elevation,” and it can spread quite quickly. People are simply more likely to help when they see someone else acting in a giving manner. There has been countless research to show that kindness truly is contagious.
The Benefits
In a world full of negativity, spreading kindness is sorely needed. People are hardwired to see the negative in themselves and the world around them. This concept of kindness contagion is one powerful way to combat the tendency to lean toward negativity. Acts of generosity can spread like wildfire and impact so many people in a positive way. Unfortunately, bad behavior and negativity is not only easier to fall into, it also tends to spread easily. One of the best ways to fight back is with kindness.
How to Keep it Going
You can keep this cycle going simply by developing a kindness habit in which you complete a generous act on a regular basis. It’s great to shoot for one every day, but even a few times a week will create a powerful habit. Also, it can help to speak up when you see someone being unkind. While this can seem scary or intimidating, it’s also a tremendous way to keep the momentum of kindness moving.
There you have it. There are scientific reasons why kindness is contagious, and the benefits are countless. If you want to see the wheels of generosity continue to spin, it’s important that you take steps to put kindness into the world on a regular basis.
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