If you recognize these 10 signs, helping others brings out the best in you

Ever been at a gathering and noticed someone, always ready to lend a hand, going out of their way to help others?

Chances are, you’ve just spotted someone for whom helping others brings out the best in them.

While their actions may seem baffling to those who are more self-focused, the truth is that these people find joy and meaning in assisting others.

So, let’s delve into these traits and highlight 10 signs that indicate that helping others truly brings out the best in you.

These are characteristics that might seem peculiar to some but are actually quite typical for people who thrive on being helpful.

1) You go the extra mile

Ever noticed that some people are always willing to go above and beyond for others? If you’re one of these people, it’s a clear sign that helping others brings out the best in you.

People who find joy in assisting others often go the extra mile without a second thought. They don’t just do what’s expected of them; they exceed expectations, all in an effort to lend a hand.

This doesn’t mean they’re pushovers or they don’t know how to say no. On the contrary, they’re simply proactive individuals who take great satisfaction in supporting others.

Whether it’s staying late to help a colleague meet a deadline, offering to babysit for busy parents, or volunteering at a local charity, these people find fulfillment in giving their time and energy to help others.

2) Empathy comes naturally to you

It’s funny, I’ve always found myself naturally understanding and sharing the feelings of those around me. That’s another sign, by the way – when empathy comes as naturally as breathing.

People who find their best selves in helping others often have high emotional intelligence. They can easily put themselves in someone else’s shoes, understand their feelings, and respond accordingly.

I remember once, my neighbor, a single mom, was struggling with her groceries. She looked overwhelmed, and without thinking, I rushed over to help. It wasn’t just about the physical act of carrying bags; I could feel her exhaustion and knew how much she would appreciate the gesture.

This doesn’t mean I’m a saint or anything close to that. It’s just that empathizing with others and lending a helping hand when I can is something that feels instinctive to me.

3) You prioritize others’ needs

Ever found yourself putting others’ needs before your own? If so, this could be another sign that helping others brings out the best in you.

People who thrive on assisting others often prioritize the needs of those around them. They find satisfaction in knowing they’ve made someone else’s day a little easier or brighter.

This doesn’t mean they neglect their own needs or wellbeing. Instead, they find a unique sense of fulfillment in seeing others happy and content, sometimes placing this joy above their own immediate desires.

Whether it’s giving up your last slice of pizza because a friend is still hungry, offering your seat to someone in need on a crowded bus, or spending your free time to tutor a struggling student, these actions show a selfless character.

4) You feel a sense of fulfillment

Helping others isn’t just a selfless act, it’s known to have positive effects on the helper too.

When you assist someone, your brain produces endorphins, the neurotransmitters known for creating feelings of happiness and fulfillment, similar to what’s experienced during a workout.

People who find their best selves in helping others often experience this ‘helpers high’. They feel a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that’s hard to replicate through other activities.

This doesn’t mean they’re helping others just for the feel-good factor. Instead, it signifies that their actions align with their values and brings them genuine joy.

Whether it’s helping an elderly person cross the street, rescuing a stray animal, or mentoring a junior colleague, these acts of kindness fill them with a sense of purpose and happiness.

5) Compassion is your second nature

For some, compassion isn’t just an emotion, it’s a way of life. Those who find their best selves in aiding others often have compassion ingrained in their very being. They feel a profound sense of empathy for others’ suffering and a strong desire to alleviate it.

This doesn’t mean they’re constantly burdened by the weight of the world. Instead, it shows their deep capacity to love and care for those around them.

Whether it’s comforting a grieving friend, supporting a family member through tough times, or simply lending a listening ear to someone who needs it, these acts of compassion define them.

6) You’re a good listener

In a world where everyone wants to be heard, those who genuinely listen are rare gems. If you’re known for your listening skills, it’s a clear indication that helping others brings out the best in you.

People who find joy in aiding others often have excellent listening abilities. They don’t just hear words; they understand emotions, nuances, and unspoken feelings.

This doesn’t mean they’re silent spectators.

They’re active listeners who provide a safe space for others to express themselves without fear of judgement or interruption.

Whether it’s patiently listening to a friend’s long day at work, understanding a child’s fears about their first day at school, or being there for someone going through a tough time, these people are the pillars others lean on.

7) Small acts of kindness are your forte

Those who excel in assisting others often practice kindness in their daily routine. They believe that even the smallest act can make a big difference.

This doesn’t mean they’re always grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s as simple as offering a warm smile to a stranger, holding the door for someone, or giving a sincere compliment.

Whether it’s making a cup of coffee for a tired coworker, helping a lost tourist find their way, or sharing your umbrella on a rainy day, these small acts of kindness often define these individuals.

8) You’re intrinsically motivated

Extrinsic rewards like money, fame or recognition don’t drive those who find their best selves in helping others. Instead, they’re intrinsically motivated – driven by internal rewards such as personal satisfaction and fulfillment.

In fact, research shows that intrinsic motivation often leads to better task performance, continued interest, and overall job satisfaction.

Being intrinsically motivated means you’re driven by your inner values and beliefs. You help others because it aligns with your purpose and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, tutoring underprivileged kids, or lending emotional support to those in need, these actions aren’t fueled by external rewards. They are acts of love that fulfill your inner purpose and bring you genuine joy.

9) You’re resilient in the face of adversity

I’ve had my fair share of setbacks and failures, just like everyone else. But I’ve noticed that those who find their best selves in helping others often exhibit an incredible amount of resilience.

Despite the challenges and hardships, I find strength in being there for others. It’s a unique kind of resilience that stems from the desire to help and support others even when life is tough.

Whether it’s providing emotional support to a friend going through a breakup while dealing with your own personal issues, or volunteering at a homeless shelter amidst job loss, these acts of resilience are nothing short of inspiring.

10) Your happiness is tied to others’

Perhaps the most profound sign that helping others brings out the best in you is when your own happiness is tied to the happiness of others. This is not about sacrificing your own happiness but about finding joy in seeing others happy.

When you can truly rejoice in someone else’s success, when you can feel a sense of fulfillment in seeing others overcome their struggles with your help, it’s a clear sign that helping others is not just an act. It’s a part of who you are.

Whether it’s celebrating a friend’s promotion as if it were your own, feeling a sense of accomplishment when a student you tutored excels, or finding joy in the smile of a stranger you helped, these moments are the ones that define you and bring out your best self.