Ella's Kitchen
Random acts of kindness with Dr Happy
I was walking back from lunch the other day when I saw a couple, either not from Sydney or at the very least not familiar with the CBD, searching on a map but clearly with no idea of where they were. Blind Freddy could have seen they were lost.
I was walking back from lunch the other day when I saw a couple, either not from Sydney or at the very least not familiar with the CBD, searching on a map but clearly with no idea of where they were. Blind Freddy could have seen they were lost.
Somewhat bemused by the lack of generosity on offer I stopped, politely asked the couple if they'd like some help, and then pointed them in the right direction. Although this only took less than a minute of my time they were extremely grateful, provided me with two lovely, genuine smiles, and left me with a wonderfully positive feeling.
This simple strategy for boosting your happiness is often referred to as the practice of random acts of kindness. Interestingly, many people find it counter-intuitive because they mistakenly think that to be happier they need to focus on, and to look after themselves.
Well, this is partly true as it's hard to be happy if you're literally sick and tired all the time. It is, therefore, hard to be happy if you don't care for yourself and if, as a result, you allow yourself to suffer. That being said, once you've taken adequate care of yourself and met your basic needs to experience real and meaningful happiness we also need to look after, care for, love and express compassion for others.
There are various ways you can do this but today I'd like to focus on the practicing of random acts of kindness; and by random acts of kindness I'm referring to acts of generosity, love and, among other things, positivity that are not necessarily directly related to some other act. So they're not in response to something someone else has done; they're not the same as expressing gratitude or appreciation for someone's good deed; they are, quite simply, conducted for no specific reason.
So next time you see someone lost, offer them directions; next time you're not in a rush, let someone in front of you in the supermarket or bank or ticket line; next time you pass someone less fortunate than yourself, spare them a coin or two from your pocket; next time you see a book or a CD or something you think someone you know will like, buy it for them (you don't have to wait for birthdays or festivals to give presents).
Keep well & keep smiling,
Dr. Timothy J Sharp
Ph.D., M.Psychol., B.Sc.(Hons)
Dr. Timothy Sharp, a clinical and coaching psychologist, is one of Australia’s leaders in mental health and the exciting new field of Positive Psychology. He’s a best selling author, consultant to numerous organisations and executives, and a regular media commentator. To find out more please visit the websites below:
- http://www.drhappy.com.au
- http://www.thehappinessinstitute.com
- http://www.makingchanges.com.au
Healthy Product Tip: New Hydra-Revitalising Crème de la Crème 50mL jar, RRP $105
A rich, ultra-comforting and plumping cream that guards against environmental
conditions to protect dry skin from dehydration. Experience the hydrating effects of
Hyaluronic Grape Flower Essence, shea butter, jojoba oil, wheat germ, and sesame oil.
For skin good enough to eat try New Hydra-Revitalising Crème de la Crème 50mL, $105.
Available at Ella Baché Salons and David Jones stores nationally.