7 things you don’t realize you’re doing that prove you’re a good person, according to psychology

From the Personal Branding Blog

Sometimes we’re so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, we forget to give ourselves credit for the little acts of goodness we unconsciously perform.

Believe it or not, these tiny actions can signal that you’re more of a good person than you might think. And no, this isn’t just some feel-good assumption. It’s based on the fascinating insights provided by psychology.

You see, being a good person isn’t just about grand gestures and significant sacrifices. It’s about the subtle things you do daily, often without even realizing it.

In this article, I’m going to share seven things you’re doing that, according to psychology, prove you’re a good person. And guess what? You’re probably doing them without even noticing!

So let’s dive in and give ourselves a pat on the back for those unrecognized acts of goodness that make us who we are: authentic, self-aware individuals continuously striving for growth.

1) Small acts of kindness

Ever find yourself going out of your way to help a stranger? Or maybe you’re the person always lending an ear to friends in need.

These small acts of kindness might seem trivial, but according to psychology, they’re a strong indicator of your inherent goodness.

Psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, “The good or healthy society would then be defined as one that permitted people’s highest purposes to emerge by satisfying all their basic needs.”

In essence, by performing these small acts of kindness, you’re contributing to a healthier society. You’re allowing others to feel valued and understood, thus enabling them to reach their highest potential.

These altruistic behaviours aren’t about seeking attention or praise. Instead, they’re unconscious actions that stem from a genuine desire to make someone else’s day a little bit better.

That, my friends, is the hallmark of a truly good person.

2) Being non-judgmental

This one really hit home for me. Remember that time when your friend shared something deeply personal with you?

They were probably scared and vulnerable, unsure of how you’d react. But instead of judging them, you listened. You empathized.

I recall a time when a dear friend confided in me about a mistake they’d made. I could see the fear in their eyes, expecting me to react negatively. But all I felt was empathy. We’re all human, after all, and we all make mistakes.

That’s when I realized: being non-judgmental is a clear sign of being a good person. Instead of passing judgment, you create a safe space for others to be their authentic selves.

Renowned psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”

This quote resonates deeply with me because it highlights the importance of not just accepting ourselves but also accepting others as they are—without judgment. This acceptance allows us to grow and change in meaningful ways.

And if you’re the kind of person who listens more than judges, give yourself credit. It’s an indicator that you’re doing more good than you realize.

3) Empathy: Understanding others’ emotions

Do you ever find yourself feeling what others are feeling? Like when a friend is anxious, you feel their anxiety. Or when someone’s ecstatic, you share their joy. That’s empathy, and it’s a powerful trait of a good person.

Let me be honest here. It’s not always easy to be empathetic. It requires us to step outside our own experiences and emotions and tap into someone else’s. But it’s this ability that allows us to connect deeply with others on an emotional level.

Famous psychologist Daniel Goleman once said, “Empathy represents the foundation skill for all the social competencies important for work.”

This quote is more relevant today than ever before. As we navigate the complexities of the world, empathy allows us to understand and support each other better.

If you’re someone who can understand and share the feelings of others, know this: your empathy is a testament to your inherent goodness.

4) Regularly expressing gratitude

Expressing gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you”. It’s about recognizing the good in your life and appreciating it. It’s about acknowledging the efforts of others and expressing your appreciation sincerely.

A fascinating study conducted by psychologists Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, revealed the power of gratitude.

In their research, one group wrote about things they were grateful for each week while the other group wrote about daily irritations or things that had displeased them.

After ten weeks, the group who wrote about gratitude were more optimistic and felt better about their lives. They even exercised more and had fewer visits to physicians than those who focused on sources of aggravation.

If you’re someone who regularly expresses gratitude, know that this simple habit not only improves your well-being but also reflects your goodness.

You’re acknowledging the value of others and the positive aspects of life, which is a beautiful thing indeed.

5) Honesty: A reflection of your character

Ever found yourself in a sticky situation where the easiest way out was a small white lie? But you chose the truth, no matter how uncomfortable? That’s honesty, and it’s a key indicator of your goodness.

I remember a time when I accidentally damaged a friend’s valuable item. I could have easily made up an excuse, but I decided to own up. The raw honesty was uncomfortable, but it was the right thing to do.

Psychologist Jordan Peterson once said, “Tell the truth. Or, at least, don’t lie.” It’s a simple quote but carries a strong message. Honesty isn’t just about speaking the truth; it’s also about not spreading falsehoods or creating illusions.

So, if you’re someone who values honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable or hard, know that you’re demonstrating one of the most revered traits of a good person.

Your commitment to truth reflects your character and authenticity.

6) Ability to say “no”

This might be a surprising one. Isn’t being a good person about saying “yes” to others’ needs? Not always. Sometimes, the ability to say “no” shows your goodness more than saying “yes”.

Here’s why: Saying “no” means you’re self-aware. You understand your limits and value your mental and physical health. You know that you can’t pour from an empty cup, and by saying “no”, you’re ensuring that you can continue to give your best to others.

Famous psychologist Dr. Judith Sills explains this beautifully: “Saying no doesn’t mean you are being rude, selfish, or unkind. These are all unhelpful beliefs that make it hard to say no.”

If you find it difficult to say “no”, remember this: Your goodness isn’t determined by how much you sacrifice for others but by how well you balance your needs with those of others.

Saying “no” when necessary is a sign of self-respect and authenticity, both of which are traits of a good person.

7) Forgiving in nature

Holding a grudge is easy. Forgiveness? Now that’s hard. But if you’re someone who tends to forgive and move on, that’s a clear sign of your goodness.

A quote by Indira Gandhi says, “Forgiveness is a virtue of the brave.” It takes strength and courage to let go of resentment and anger.

If you’re quick to forgive, give yourself some credit. It’s a powerful trait that proves your inherent goodness.

Final thoughts

Our journey through life is a complex one, filled with moments of triumph, growth, and self-discovery.

The very traits and actions we discussed, those you perform unconsciously, are the truest reflection of your character.

They reveal your inherent goodness, often more than grand gestures or significant sacrifices.

These seven traits- small acts of kindness, being non-judgmental, empathy, expressing gratitude, honesty, the ability to say “no”, and being forgiving in nature are not just behaviors.

They’re a testament to your authenticity, self-awareness, and continuous growth.

So, as you navigate this beautiful chaos we call life, remember to give yourself credit where it’s due. You’re more of a good person than you might think.

Reflect on these traits, nurture them, and continue to let your goodness shine through.

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