13 Quotes About the Benefits of Giving
The law of diminishing returns states that there is always a point at which putting in more of something will yield smaller and less beneficial results. The theory applies to everything from how many hours an employee works a week to how much junk food one can eat in a sitting. Thankfully, this principle doesn’t apply to giving, because as we all know, giving is literally the gift that keeps on, well, giving.
When we place ourselves in a position of service, we feel more poised to give again, and the cycle continues on. Generosity has been shown to be a necessary component of a meaningful life, and is linked to feelings of fulfillment and gratitude, as well as compassion and grace — and not just toward others, but toward ourselves, too. As the Dalai Lama put it, “Generosity is the most natural outward expression of an inner attitude of compassion and loving-kindness.”
In addition to its emotional benefits, giving also has some rather unexpected physical perks. The act of giving has been linked to everything from lower blood pressure to lower stress levels, which can lead to a longer life. Giving — whether it be leaving a small note for a loved one, being of service to a neighbor, or donating to a charity — causes us to step outside of our own troubles and think about the bigger picture and how we fit into it.
As such, giving is an important way to better society while also tapping into our own best selves. Below, we’ve rounded up 13 quotes that remind us about the benefits of giving, and how the world can be a better place if we all operate from a space of generosity and abundance.
