What Does It Mean To Be A Good Person?
There's no "one fits all" description for being a good person. Everyone is made up of so many different factors that all come together to define the kind of person they are. But if there's one thing we can say for certain, it's that for a majority of us, we're always looking for ways to become better people. So if you're looking for a way to improve yourself, here are 20 things we believe every good person does.
1. You Help Others Before Yourself
Going the extra mile to ensure that others are taken care of before yourself is a clear sign that you're a good person. It shows that you're aware of other people and their needs beyond just your own. Clearly, you've got a big heart and love doing your part to make things better for everyone around you.
2. You're Always Honest
There's truth behind the saying honesty is the best policy. No one appreciates being lied to, deceived, or betrayed. Understanding that and applying it to yourself so that you can become a better person is a big deal. Always being honest and truthful shows that you respect others and their feelings. It also shows that you care about carrying yourself in a respectable manner.
3. You're Kind Even To Strangers
Just because you don't know someone doesn't give you an excuse to be mean to them. Being kind to strangers is an easy way to show that you're a good person. Whether it's simply holding the door open for someone or helping them carry something heavy, going out of your way to show them kindness simultaneously shows everyone your pure heart.
4. You Always Say Please & Thank You
You might not think of this point as a big deal, but saying please and thank you can go a long way. It's a simple way to demonstrate that you have manners and that you're mindful of others. It shows that you're polite when you ask someone for help, and that you acknowledge and appreciate their kindness too.
5. You Value Others' Opinions
While yes, it's important that you back yourself and your beliefs, you shouldn't do it in a way that shuts down other people. Being a good person means understanding everyone is different and has unique perspectives. It also means giving everyone a chance to speak and genuinely hearing them out. It's how you learn and grow as a person too.
6. You're Respectful Of Other Cultures
It's common knowledge that every culture does things a bit differently. What you're used to is likely not the same as someone from across the globe. That's why being understanding and compassionate is so important. In this day and age where the world is becoming more connected thanks to the Internet, being respectful of other cultures and their differences just reflects your kind heart.
7. You Put Yourself In Others' Shoes
It's important to remember that not everyone comes from the same place. Some people face a lot more challenges and difficulties in life, and everyone has their own secrets to hide. When facing a difficult situation, if you're able to push past your own way of thinking for just a minute to put yourself in someone else's shoes, it shows that you're truly an understanding person who wants the best for others.
8. You Do Your Part For The Environment
In today's climate crisis, everyone needs to do their part to help this planet survive. Treating the environment kindly and going out of your way to do your part shows that you're a good person on different levels. It doesn't just demonstrate how you care about the environment, it also shows that you care for the community and everyone on this Earth. You want to help out for the sake of everyone, not just yourself.
9. You Follow The Law
This might sound a bit stereotypical, but a law-abiding citizen is a good one. These rules have been set in place for the safety and well-being of everyone. Doing your part doesn't just mean you're a contributing member of society, it means you're looking out for everyone too. It's what helps everyone feel more safe and secure.
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10. You Give Honest Compliments
Spreading sincere love and kindness is an easy way to show you're a good person. You want others to feel happy so you're constantly giving out genuine compliments that can make their day. Whether it's a friend, family member, or a stranger, you're always looking to see the best in people.
11. You Love Yourself
Positivity and love starts with you! If you're genuinely a good person deep down, there's no reason why you wouldn't love yourself. It's the first step to becoming a solid role model that everyone can look up to.
12. You Treat Everyone Equally
Whether it's the waiter at a restaurant or a team member working under you, there's no reason why anybody needs to be treated lesser than. Nobody appreciates being looked down at. If you really take this to heart and treat everyone around you equally and respectfully, we have no doubts that you're an exceptionally kind-hearted person.
13. You Do Random Acts Of Kindness
Unplanned, spontaneous acts of kindness can sometimes be the best kind. These acts, no matter how small, are guaranteed to come from the heart. Being randomly inspired to do something nice for someone else really showcases the kind of person you are.
14. You Always Stay Positive
Don't you just love being around someone who's positive and looks at the bright side of things? When you're around someone who motivates others and lifts them up, that positivity is truly infectious. These kinds of people are always looking for ways to help others out. If that isn't a sign of a good person, we don't know what is.
15. You Own Up To Your Own Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes regardless of whether you're a good person or not. But what matters at the end of the day is if you own up to it. Being able to acknowledge where you messed up and apologizing for it is huge. You're not shifting the blame to someone else or acting too stubborn to admit it. You'd be surprised by how many people struggle with this.
16. You Set A Good Example
There's nothing more telling of a good person than being a good role model. If you're someone others look up to, go to for advice, or reach out to for help, it's likely because your good soul has touched the hearts of others. Setting a good example for others just means that you display exemplary behavior.
17. You Give Back To Your Parents
Knowing your roots and paying it back to the people who looked after you is another way to show your kindness. If you had loving parents growing up that gave you everything you needed to become the person you are today, there's nothing more touching a good person can do than giving back to them.
18. You Stay Humble
Even when success starts coming your way, you know how to stay humble and be grateful for everyone who's helped you along the way. Instead of getting an inflated ego, you take the time to thank everyone in your life for what they've done for you. Keeping grounded and knowing your roots is such a special part of being a good person.
19. You're Responsible
While being responsible doesn't solely make you a good person, it's definitely a crucial factor that plays a big part. You can think of responsibility as taking ownership of everything you do. Not only are you looking out for others by being responsible, it also means you're okay with being held accountable for things you do. You take action and help others when you know it's your job to.
20. You Give Back To Those In Need
Looking past your needs to help others is a defining part of being a good person. You can recognize when others need your help and you're more than happy to give it. Whether it's volunteering, working for charity, or simply helping a friend who's struggling, giving back is a clear sign of your good heart.
