If you treat people in these 8 ways, you’re a better person than you realize

Life doesn’t come with a handbook on how to be a good person. We learn about historical figures, complex mathematical formulas, and the intricacies of grammar, but we’re rarely given a blueprint on how to be decent, caring, empathetic human beings.

Most of us stumble through life, figuring out our own moral compass through a series of trial and error. And if you’re anything like the average person, you’ve probably erred more than you’d like to admit.

Welcome to the world of unintentional faux pas and missed opportunities for kindness.

One of the challenges is that our society often values self-interest over altruism. We’re encouraged to climb corporate ladders, to seek recognition, and to compete fiercely – often at the expense of genuinely connecting with those around us.

In this way, being good can sometimes feel like an uphill battle against the wind. But here’s the thing: you might be a better person than you realize.

That’s right. Often, we underestimate the impact of our small gestures of kindness or thoughtful actions. It’s time we understand that being a better person isn’t about grand heroic acts but rather, simple everyday deeds.

So let’s delve into 8 ways in which you might be treating people that indicate you’re a better person than you think.

It’s not your typical self-help advice, it might even feel counterintuitive at times, but trust us, it works.

1) You listen more than you speak

In a world where everyone is eager to voice their opinion, the ones who truly listen are a rare breed.

Listening goes beyond just hearing the words that someone is saying. It’s about understanding their perspective, showing empathy, and making them feel valued.

People who are good listeners don’t just wait for their turn to speak—they genuinely care about what the other person is saying. They aren’t quick to offer advice or solutions unless asked for, understanding that sometimes, people just need to vent.

Listening isn’t just about being silent while the other person talks. It’s about engaging with them, asking relevant questions, and showing interest in their stories.

Being a good listener also means respecting the other person’s viewpoints, even if they differ from yours. It’s not about agreeing with everything they say but acknowledging their right to have their own opinion.

Moreover, active listening can help in building stronger relationships—because when people feel heard, they feel seen.

If you find yourself genuinely interested in people’s stories and perspectives, if you find more joy in understanding than being understood, then you might be a better person than you realize.

The act of listening is a simple yet powerful way to show kindness and respect towards others.

And while you’re paying attention to others’ stories and perspectives, there’s another trait that shines through…

2) You practice gratitude regularly

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”. It’s an attitude, a way of life that involves recognizing and appreciating the good in your life.

People who practice gratitude regularly don’t take things for granted.

They appreciate the small joys, the everyday blessings, and even the challenges that help them grow.

They understand that life is a gift and every moment is precious.

Practicing gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring the negatives in life. It simply means choosing to focus on the positives. It’s about acknowledging your blessings rather than dwelling on what you lack.

Moreover, being grateful has been linked to many benefits such as improved mental health, better sleep, and stronger relationships. It helps to foster a sense of contentment and satisfaction in life.

But it’s not just about personal benefits. Expressing gratitude towards others can make a huge difference in their lives too. A simple “thank you” can brighten someone’s day, make them feel valued and appreciated.

So, if you often find yourself counting your blessings, if you make it a point to thank people for their kindness, if you try to focus on the good even in tough times, then you’re probably a better person than you realize.

Your gratitude not only enhances your own well-being but also contributes positively to those around you.

But gratitude isn’t the only way you spread positivity…

3) You give without expecting in return

True generosity is giving without expecting anything in return. It’s about helping others not because you want something back but because you genuinely care.

People who give selflessly understand that kindness isn’t a transaction. They don’t keep score, they don’t give just to receive. They give because it brings them joy, because they believe in making the world a little better.

This doesn’t mean they’re pushovers or that they let others take advantage of them. It simply means they choose to be generous because it aligns with their values, not because they want to gain something from it.

Giving can take many forms—it could be financial help, volunteering time, sharing knowledge, or even just being there for someone in need.

If you find joy in giving, if you help others without expecting anything in return, if you’re generous with your time and resources, then you’re likely a better person than you think. Your selfless giving makes a significant impact on those around you.

Yet, while generosity is a beautiful trait, there’s another form of strength that’s equally admirable…

4) You respect different opinions

In a world filled with diverse beliefs and perspectives, respecting different opinions is not just a virtue but a necessity.

People who respect different opinions don’t necessarily agree with them. They simply acknowledge that everyone has the right to their own beliefs and perspectives.

They engage in healthy debates instead of heated arguments. They listen to understand, not to counter-argue. They see disagreements as opportunities to learn and grow rather than threats to their own beliefs.

Respecting different opinions means valuing diversity and individuality. It requires self-confidence and open-mindedness. It’s about agreeing to disagree without losing respect for the other person.

If you’re open to differing viewpoints, if you engage respectfully in disagreements, if you appreciate diversity and individuality, then you’re probably a better person than you realize.

Your respect for differing opinions promotes understanding and harmony in your interactions with others, however, your strength of character shines through in another way as well…

5) You apologize when you’re wrong

Apologizing when you’re wrong is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes courage to admit your mistakes and take responsibility for your actions.

People who apologize when they’re wrong understand that everyone makes mistakes. They don’t let pride get in the way of acknowledging their faults.

Rather than trying to justify their actions or blame others, they own up to their mistakes and try to make amends. They see apologies not as a loss, but as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Apologizing also shows respect for the other person’s feelings. It’s a way of saying, “I value our relationship more than my ego.”

However, a true apology is more than just saying “I’m sorry”. It involves understanding the impact of your actions, showing genuine remorse, and taking steps to avoid repeating the mistake.

So if you’re quick to apologize when you’ve done something wrong, if you can swallow your pride and admit your mistakes, if you value relationships over being right, then you’re probably a better person than you realize.

Owning up to your mistakes and genuinely apologizing shows a level of maturity many lack. But it’s not just about admitting when you’re wrong; it’s about learning and growing from it.

And speaking of growth…

6) You embrace change

Change is a constant in life, yet many of us resist it. But those who embrace change, who view it as an opportunity rather than a threat, often exhibit a level of resilience and adaptability that is truly admirable.

People who embrace change understand that it’s necessary for growth. They don’t cling to comfort zones or fear the unknown. Instead, they welcome new experiences, learn from them, and evolve.

Embracing change means having an open mind and a flexible attitude. It’s about finding the silver lining in even the most challenging situations and using them as stepping stones to move forward.

So if you’re someone who adapts well to change, who sees it as a part of life’s journey, who finds opportunities in unexpected places, then you’re probably a better person than you realize.

Your ability to embrace change not only helps you grow as an individual but also inspires those around you to do the same.

While many resist change, you view it as an opportunity, a new chapter. This adaptability is commendable. But your resilience doesn’t end there…

7) You practice patience

In a fast-paced world where instant gratification is the norm, patience is indeed a virtue. It’s about waiting without complaining, understanding that good things take time.

People who practice patience demonstrate a level of maturity and self-control that sets them apart. They don’t rush through life or make hasty decisions. They take their time, think things through, and act with deliberation.

Patience isn’t about being passive or complacent. It’s about understanding the value of timing and the importance of giving things the time they need to unfold naturally.

Practicing patience also involves being patient with others—understanding that everyone has their own pace and journey.

So if you’re someone who remains calm in frustrating situations, who can wait without complaining, who treats others with understanding and kindness even when they test your patience, then you’re probably a better person than you realize. Your patience brings tranquility and balance to your life and the lives of those around you.

And as serene as patience can be, there’s another gentle force that leaves a lasting impact…

8) You consistently show kindness

Kindness is a universal language that speaks to the heart. It’s about treating others with warmth, respect, and understanding—no matter who they are or what they’ve done.

People who consistently show kindness don’t do so based on what they can get in return. They’re kind because it’s in their nature, because they believe in the inherent worth of every individual.

They understand that kindness isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about small acts that can make a big difference. A kind word, a helping hand, a smile—these are things that cost nothing but can mean everything to someone else.

So if you’re someone who spreads kindness wherever you go, who treats everyone with respect and empathy, who believes in the power of a kind word or deed, then you’re probably a better person than you realize. Your kindness brightens up the world around you and inspires others to do the same.

There you have it. Eight simple yet powerful ways to treat people that reflect your inner goodness.

Remember, being a better person isn’t about striving for perfection—it’s about continuous growth and learning. So keep treating people these ways and continue being the amazing person that you are.

Bottom line: It’s a journey

The journey to becoming a better person is an ongoing process, deeply interwoven with our self-awareness, empathy, and compassion.

One fact that remains universally accepted is the power of kindness. As Mark Twain once said, “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.”

It’s in our small acts of kindness, our patience, our acceptance of change, our ability to apologize when we’re wrong, and our practice of gratitude that we truly realize the depth of our character.

Whether it’s lending an ear to someone in need, expressing gratitude for a small act of kindness, or simply respecting differing opinions, the underlying principle is the same – treating people with kindness and respect.

Remember that every step you take towards treating people better makes a difference – not just in their lives but also in defining who you are and how you feel.

And as you continue this journey of growth and self-improvement, always bear in mind that you’re probably a better person than you realize.

Your actions reflect your heart, and if these eight ways are any indication, your heart is certainly in the right place.

Keep growing. Keep learning. Keep being you.