If someone has these 14 qualities, they’re a genuinely good person

In our quest to understand what makes a genuinely good person, we can sometimes overlook the qualities that matter most. 

Most of the time, being good is not about grand gestures or heroic deeds, but about the simple, everyday actions and attitudes that define us.

In short, we’ll be talking about those individuals who do the right thing even when nobody is looking.

If someone has these 14 qualities, you can be sure they’re a genuinely good person.

1) Empathy

Let’s kick things off with the first quality: Empathy. 

Good people possess the ability to understand and empathize with the feelings of others.

This doesn’t mean they take on others’ emotions, but rather they can relate to what others are going through because they’ve experienced similar emotions themselves.

They demonstrate empathy by:

• Listening carefully to what others are saying
• Responding in a thoughtful and compassionate manner
• Being supportive of those in need

But that’s not all, instead of offering unsolicited advice or trying to ‘fix’ the situation, they provide a supportive presence, demonstrating genuine understanding and care.

2) Honesty

Next on the list is honesty. 

Genuinely good people are truthful and sincere, even when it might be uncomfortable. Due to their kind nature, they might compromise on some things to keep the peace, but not honesty!

Think about it – what is more important in relationships than honesty? In both personal and professional relationships, trust is the foundation.

They lead by example and they’re not afraid to admit when they’re wrong, because they know that everyone makes mistakes.

However, it’s important to clarify that their honesty isn’t blunt or brutal; rather, they’ve mastered the art of expressing truth in a respectful and considerate manner.

3) Kindness

This is probably because good people are kind to everyone they meet. 

This kindness emanates from their understanding that each person is fighting their own battles and a little kindness can go a long way.

But that’s not all. Their kindness isn’t reserved for those they know and love, it’s extended to strangers, too.

Whether it’s holding the door for someone, offering a word of encouragement, or simply giving a warm smile, their kindness shines through in their actions. 

The best part? Kindness is contagious. Their actions inspire others to be kinder, creating a ripple effect of goodwill and positivity.

On a personal note, I once witnessed someone casually picking up wrappers from the shore while walking on the beach.

It inspired me so much that I started carrying a plastic bag with me when I spend time in nature! 

4) Integrity

Their integrity?

Not negotiable! 

Even when faced with challenges or temptations, genuinely good people remain steadfast, proving that they can be trusted. 

You see, they possess traits that are highly valued in any relationship, like reliability and dependability. 

If you haven’t met a person with integrity, let me give you a hint on how to find one: 

Their actions match their words, and their moral compass guides them in their decisions.

They do the right thing, not because they want praise or recognition, but because it’s the right thing to do.

5) Respectful

I have been lucky to have a few genuinely good people as friends. 

A common trait among them all was respect. I remember feeling proud to call them my friends, observing the genuine respect they demonstrated towards my family, their own, or even a distant neighbor.

They also share an understanding that everyone has a right to their own opinions and they honor that right, even when they disagree.

What’s more, they’re all about respecting boundaries. Genuinely good people understand that everyone has their comfort levels and limits, and they’re careful not to overstep or infringe upon them.

Wouldn’t the world be a great place if everyone did that?

6) Tolerance

Good people love seeing other people happy. They realize that the world is full of diverse people, each with their own unique experiences, perspectives, and values. 

They don’t expect everyone to think or act as they do, nor do they judge or belittle those who are different from them.

Instead, they celebrate diversity and see it as a chance to learn and grow. 

In essence, being tolerant makes them embrace our differences and see them as an opportunity to gain a broader understanding of the world.

7) Positivity

Now, I have to confess. I’m a sucker for positivity. 

And these individuals radiate positive energy!

I will never forget my friend Geta. I met him first at an induction at the Head Office of my former company.

When I saw him walk in, the entire room turned to smile and wave at him as though he was a celebrity. I thought, ‘Who is this guy radiating such positive energy?’ 

So I introduced myself and that’s how our friendship started…

I used to ask him, “Geta, you work so hard and have two kids, aren’t you tired? How do you keep that positivity all the time?”

He used to say: “Jose, just focus on the good in people and situations, don’t dwell on the negative. Everything will be okay.”

He found a silver lining in everything. In my opinion, that’s how he remained hopeful even in tough times.

8) Resilience

Moving on, resilience is another notable quality. 

This is the ability to endure through hard times. 

They’re the type of people who after a setback bounce back, more robust and wiser. 

Don’t be mistaken, they aren’t robots. They’re not immune to pain or failure, but they don’t let these experiences define them.

As a result, they inspire others with their strength and determination.

9) Gratitude

Now, there’s a strong relationship between being a good person and showing gratitude.

They’re unacquainted with a sense of entitlement. Their humility keeps them grounded. They don’t feel they inherently deserve things; instead, they appreciate whatever life grants them.

That said, here’s the thing to remember: 

Gratitude is not just about saying thank you, but about acknowledging the value of what they have. 

When you’re grateful for what you have, you feel more content, optimistic, and open to the goodness life has to offer, primarily because you don’t waste time dwelling on what you wish you had.

10) Responsibility

Do you remember the kid at school who, when asked, would admit to messing up even when he didn’t have to?

This is a trait that most genuinely good people have. That’s why we love them and trust them.

You can rest assured that if they make a mistake, they will own it; in other words, they will not throw you under the bus in tough times.

Blaming someone else? 

That doesn’t work with these folks; they’ll admit their mistakes and learn from them.

I admire this trait, it shows a lot of courage and commitment to being a good person. 

11) Generous

These individuals have generosity in abundance. This comes from a place of empathy and compassion. 

Generosity can manifest in many ways:

• Helping others
• Making a donation
• Volunteering their time
• Offering a comforting word

The truth is, their acts of generosity make a significant difference in the lives of others.

Don’t you get such a heartwarming feeling when you witness an act of generosity? 

12) Patient

As the old saying goes, patience is a virtue. 

And it’s certainly a quality that good people possess.

You see, people who are patient are able to transform frustration or impatience into support and understanding.

In essence, whether they’re teaching a new skill, dealing with a difficult situation, or waiting for results, they do so with grace and patience.

I will admit this is one trait I’m working hard to improve; it was my New Year’s resolution. It’s still a work in progress, inspired by the many good people around me, so maybe I will write about my experience next time!

For now, let’s jump on to our last trait and wrap up… 

13) Forgiving

Last but not least…

Being forgiving is a truly commendable yet hard trait. These individuals know all too well that holding onto anger or resentment only hurts them in the long run. 

Instead of dwelling on the wrongs done to them, they choose to forgive and move forward.

Now, as many of the traits we’ve mentioned, they can be performed inwardly or outwardly. 

And I believe that we often overlook the concept of inward forgiveness.

Is it just my impression? 

Consider this: 

When was the last time you forgave yourself?

Good people know that everyone makes mistakes and sometimes we get hurt by our actions. That’s why they forgive themselves as well as others as a step towards healing and peace.

Final word

It’s important to note that nobody is perfect, and we all have room for improvement. Striving to embody these qualities doesn’t mean you have to master them all at once.

Remember, growth is a journey, not a destination. As we continue to learn and evolve, we become better versions of ourselves. 

Until next time, keep growing, learning, and striving to be the best you can be!