Being a good person isn’t about grand gestures of heroism, but rather, it’s in the small acts of kindness, empathy and understanding that we carry out on a daily basis.
But how do we measure goodness? What sets a genuinely good person apart from the rest?
Psychology has some interesting answers to these questions. There are certain traits and behaviours that are common among people who are genuinely good at heart.
Here, I’ll share with you nine signs that you’re genuinely a good person, according to psychology. These aren’t just arbitrary points but scientifically-backed indicators that can help us understand ourselves better.
Let’s dive in.
1) Empathy is your second nature
We all have moments of empathy, but for genuinely good people, empathy isn’t just an occasional feeling—it’s a way of life.
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s about stepping into someone else’s shoes and feeling what they’re feeling.
According to psychology, people who are genuinely good often display high levels of empathy. They can’t help but be affected by the emotions of those around them.
When you see someone in distress, whether it’s a friend or a stranger, you feel a strong urge to comfort them. You can’t just walk past someone who’s hurting without offering a helping hand.
And it’s not about expecting anything in return. It’s about genuinely wanting to alleviate the suffering of others because you feel their pain as your own.
2) You’re quick to admit when you’re wrong
We all make mistakes—it’s part of being human. But not everyone can easily admit when they’ve made one. As for me, I’ve learned that being a genuinely good person means owning up to my mistakes without hesitation.
I remember one day at work, I made a significant error on a project that cost us some valuable time. Instead of trying to hide it or blame someone else, I immediately went to my boss and confessed my mistake. I explained what happened, took full responsibility, and presented a plan on how to rectify the situation.
The response I received wasn’t anger or disappointment. Instead, my boss appreciated my honesty and willingness to take responsibility. It not only helped solve the problem quicker but also strengthened the trust between us.
According to psychology, this ability to admit when you’re wrong is a sign of a genuinely good person. It shows humility, integrity, and a strong sense of accountability.
3) You value justice and fairness
In a world where unfairness and injustice are rampant, your unwavering belief in justice and fairness stands out. You can’t stand seeing people being treated unfairly and you’re often the first to speak up against injustices.
This isn’t just noble, it’s also rooted in psychology. A study published in the journal “Nature” revealed that humans are hardwired to react against perceived injustices and want to see fairness restored. This reaction engages the same parts of the brain that respond to basic rewards and punishments.
So, when you stand up for what’s right, even when it’s not popular or easy, it’s not just a sign of your good character, but also an indication of how our brains are wired to seek justice.
In essence, your commitment to fairness and equality not only contributes to a better world but also validates your position as a genuinely good person.
4) You consistently show kindness
Kindness is the language of the genuinely good-hearted. You don’t just show kindness when it’s convenient or when you’re expected to, but even in situations where others might not.
Whether it’s giving up your seat for someone in need, helping a struggling colleague at work, or just being there for a friend in distress, your actions speak volumes about your character.
Psychologists suggest that consistent acts of kindness are a strong indicator of goodness. It’s not about grand gestures, but the small acts of kindness that you routinely perform without expecting anything in return.
If you find yourself constantly looking for ways to make someone’s day a little bit better, it’s a clear sign that you’re a genuinely good person.
5) You’re honest, even when it’s hard
Honesty is a virtue that is cherished in every culture, and for a good reason. Being truthful, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable, shows a strong moral character.
As a genuinely good person, you value honesty above convenience. You’d rather tell a hard truth than a comforting lie, and you uphold this principle even when it’s against your own interests.
Psychologists suggest that people who consistently choose honesty over deceit, even in small everyday interactions, possess high levels of integrity and moral fortitude.
If you find yourself standing by the truth, even when it’s easier or safer to lie, it’s a clear indication of your genuine goodness. It might not always be easy, but your commitment to truth speaks volumes about your character.
6) You forgive and let go
Holding onto resentment and grudges can be easy, but as a genuinely good person, you choose the path of forgiveness. You understand that everyone makes mistakes and that holding onto anger only hurts you in the end.
Choosing to forgive doesn’t mean that you’re forgetting or dismissing the wrongs done to you. It means that you’re making a conscious decision to let go of the negativity and move forward with your life.
Psychologists have found that the act of forgiveness has profound impacts on our mental and emotional well-being. It lowers stress levels, improves mood, and fosters healthier relationships.
If you find yourself able to forgive and let go, even when it’s hard, it’s a testament to your strength and goodness. Your ability to forgive is not just a gift to others—it’s a gift to yourself too.
7) You’re not afraid to show your emotions
In a world where showing emotions is often seen as a sign of weakness, you’re not afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve. You understand that being open about your feelings doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.
I remember a time when I was going through a tough phase personally and professionally. Instead of burying my feelings and putting on a brave face, I chose to share my struggles with my close friends. Opening up about my fears and insecurities wasn’t easy, but it was liberating. It led to deeper connections and reminded me that it’s okay to not be okay all the time.
Psychologists agree that being open about our emotions is a sign of emotional intelligence and maturity. It indicates that you have the courage to face your feelings head-on and the confidence to express them openly.
8) You’re there for others in their time of need
Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. We all have our ups and downs. But as a genuinely good person, you don’t shy away from being there for others during their hard times.
Whether it’s a friend going through a breakup, a family member dealing with illness, or a colleague facing a difficult challenge, you’re always ready to lend a listening ear, offer a comforting word, or lend a helping hand.
Psychologists suggest that this willingness to stand by others during their toughest times is a powerful sign of altruism and goodness. It shows that you’re not just concerned about your own well-being, but you truly care about the well-being of others too.
9) You strive to be better
The journey of being a genuinely good person is not about being perfect—it’s about striving to be better. You acknowledge your flaws and weaknesses, and instead of letting them define you, you use them as stepping stones for self-improvement.
Psychologists emphasize that this continuous desire for personal growth and improvement is a key characteristic of genuinely good people.
It shows that you’re committed to becoming the best version of yourself, not just for your own sake, but also to make a positive impact on those around you.
Final thoughts: It’s about the journey, not the destination
At the end of the day, being a genuinely good person isn’t about ticking off a checklist. It’s about the conscious decisions you make each day to be kind, empathetic, and honest.
Psychology might provide us with indicators of goodness, but it’s important to remember that we are all works in progress. We are constantly evolving, learning, and growing.
Being a genuinely good person is less about being perfect and more about striving for betterment—embracing our flaws, learning from our mistakes, and persistently working towards becoming the best versions of ourselves.
After all, it’s this journey of self-improvement and personal growth that truly defines our goodness. So as you navigate your own path, remember: Being good isn’t a state of being; it’s a way of living.
And every step you take on this journey makes a significant difference—not just in your life, but in the lives of those around you too.
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