The Power of Giving

Last Updated on Friday, 25 December 2009 08:11 Written by GHV Editorial Friday, 25 December 2009 07:59

We have all heard the old saying that it is better to give than to receive, but recently, a new study proved scientifically that the real key to happiness is generous giving. In times of economic stress, it is even more important because giving actually builds your wealth, and the wealth of the local community.

People who give charitably are 43 percent more likely to say they are “very happy” than non-givers, while non-givers are three and a half times more likely than givers to report they are “not happy at all,” notes Arthur Brooks in his new book, "Who Really Cares: The Surprising Truth about Compassionate Conservatism."

Brooks also notes that several large studies have found that senior citizens who volunteer have a 40 percent lower probability of dying in a given year than people of the same age and health level.

In a surprising turn, Brooks proves that giving also increases personal and well as national prosperity. Brooks quotes a survey that controlled for education, age, race and all the other outside explanations for giving and income increases. The survey proved that a dollar donated to charity was associated with $4.35 in extra income for the giver. $3.75 of that was due to the dollar given to charity, and the multiplier effect it has in the local economy. At the national level, a 1 percent increase in national giving increases Gross Domestic Product by about $36 billion.

Ancient Greeks understood this concept well, and developed the cultural habit of tithing, or donating 10 percent of their income to charity. Charitable giving helps build strong local communities and families as well. Giving and volunteering promote bonds of trust among neighbors, and help to sustain numerous charities providing critical services in education, health, the arts, the environment and disaster relief.

The most beneficial giving is often done anonymously, and without any expectations by the giver. Anonymous giving increases your sense of personal well-being, self-esteem and perception of your own wealth. Those who give, tend to be more grateful for what they have, and satisfied with their personal wealth instead of seeking more.

Recent studies have proves that it is indeed better to give than to receive. Giving increases your personal wealth, health, sense of well-being and boosts your community as well.

Many of us lot our jobs and/or homes this year. In fact, one out of eight Americans is on unemployment benefits, and one in four children relies on food stamps for their next meal. If you are having a hard time getting into the holiday spirit because of reasons like these, it is especially important to give. Start by listing at least 25 things you are grateful for, from the food in your belly to the clothes on your back.

Then, take the time to write a personal, heart-felt note of thanks to someone who shared their time, inspiration or money with you when you needed it. Doing this one simple act reminds you of other’s generosity and recalls the feeling of gratitude you felt as the recipient.  You are primed and ready to try giving. Here’s a few suggestions:

---Slip money anonymously to someone who needs it. No strings should be attached, and no credit due the giver. Can’t find a person? Give it to your local food bank instead.

---Holiday workers often hear lots of complaints and little praise. Take time to point out good service to the manager of a store or restaurant. Write a letter praising a service worker (mail deliverer, doorman, building super, clerk, etc.)

---Volunteer your time with local nonprofit organizations. Two years of recession have gutted the budgets of most nonprofits. They could all use some extra help to get through the holidays and for the rest of the year.

---Practice random acts of kindness on a daily basis. Start by smiling at strangers, give up your seat on the bus, add a quarter to the expired parking meter, pay the toll of the guy behind you, never miss an opportunity to praise a child, or sit and listen to an elderly person.

Shawn Dell Joyce is an award-winning columnist and founder of the Wallkill River School in Orange County, N.Y. You can contact her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . To find out more about Shawn Dell Joyce and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.