Feeling Good from Doing Good
It’s that time of year again—a season that often highlights the gap between those who have and those who don’t. The holidays, with their materialism and high expectations, can unintentionally shine a light on what’s missing for many. For some, there will be no Christmas presents to fill the stockings or festive feasts to fill their bellies.
Yet, it’s also a season when businesses and organisations turn their focus outward, providing food, gifts, and companionship to those in need. One year, a workplace I was part of organised a visit to deliver food to an animal shelter and presents to children at a local cancer hospital. It was an unforgettable experience, leaving both the givers and receivers with full hearts.
But as meaningful as this was, I couldn’t help but wonder—why isn’t this part of our regular routine? What if doing good became an authentic, everyday practice rather than a once-a-year gesture? What if we made a conscious effort to look beyond ourselves more often?
In giving, we also receive. Could this be a way to build a happier, healthier society?
This week, I want to share some fascinating insights from positive psychology about the benefits of giving. Perhaps they’ll inspire you to reflect on your own life, your family, and your workplaces. How might you create more opportunities to give your time, energy, and strengths so others can flourish?
Psychological Benefits
Increased Happiness and Life Satisfaction
A study by Lyubomirsky et al. (2005) found that performing five acts of kindness weekly led to a 42% increase in happiness compared to a control group.
Reduced Depression
Research by Post (2005) showed that helping others significantly reduces depression and boosts emotional well-being, with 76% of participants reporting a "helper’s high."
Boosted Resilience
According to the 2010 Gallup World Poll, volunteering just two hours per week makes people 64% more likely to describe their lives as “thriving.”
Physical Health Benefits
Improved Health Outcomes
A meta-analysis by Jenkinson et al. (2013) linked volunteering to lower blood pressure and a 20% lower mortality rate among regular volunteers.
Longevity
Research in Health Psychology revealed a 30% reduction in mortality rates for people who consistently provide social support to others.
Mechanisms of Benefit
Release of Oxytocin
Acts of kindness can boost oxytocin levels by 47%, according to research from the University of British Columbia. This hormone promotes bonding and reduces stress.
Reduced Stress
A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that altruistic behaviour lowers cortisol levels by 23%, helping to relieve stress.
So, as you move through this season, I encourage you to explore ways to weave giving into the fabric of your daily life. Imagine the ripple effect if we all gave a little more of ourselves—not just at Christmas, but all year round.
Go with aroha this week
Mary-Anne
Energy Awareness
Energy Awareness
Maintaining Energy as a Leader: A Conversation About Staying Grounded and Giving Back
Leadership can be a mixed bag, can’t it? Some days you’re nailing it, energised and on top of things. Other days, it feels like you’re carrying the weight of everyone’s struggles as well as your own. It’s no small task to lead while keeping your own energy tank full. So, let’s talk about how to maintain energy for yourself and your colleagues. Here are four practical strategies to help you lead with strength, care, and a little bit of humour.
1. Be the Constant
Consistency is one of the greatest gifts you can offer as a leader. When times are tough, people need clarity and stability. By being clear about expectations—what needs to be done, how it needs to be done, and by when—you provide a safe foundation for your team. But don’t mistake “constant” for “robotic.” Acknowledge that it’s tough out there. Saying, “This is hard, and I see you doing your best,” goes a long way.
Liz Wiseman talks about the dangers of being an “Optimist” as an accidental diminisher in her book Multipliers. When we focus only on silver linings, we can accidentally dismiss how challenging things are. Instead of saying, “You’ve got this!” on repeat, try saying, “This is a lot. Let’s work through it together.”
Your steady presence creates a sense of security and lets your team know they’re not alone.
2. Hand-Hold When Needed
Sometimes people don’t need a pep talk—they need a partner. Feeling isolated can sap energy faster than a poorly planned Monday morning meeting. That’s where shadow-coaching comes in.
Get alongside your team members, especially when they’re navigating something tricky. This might mean sitting in on a challenging meeting with them, offering feedback on a draft, or simply being there as they take the first steps towards a new skill or task. It’s not about micromanaging; it’s about being a temporary crutch when someone’s feeling unsteady.
When we walk beside our colleagues, we remind them that they’re part of a team—and that’s incredibly energising.
3. Know Your Locus of Control
Here’s a tough truth: sometimes, we pour our energy into things we simply can’t control. Maybe it’s a decision from the higher-ups, the behaviour of others, or even the weather ruining an outdoor event. If you can’t influence it, is it worth your energy?
Take a moment to identify where your energy is being drained unnecessarily. Then, refocus on what you can control—your own actions, priorities, and mindset. This shift not only protects your energy but also models resilience and practicality for your team.
Remember, your ability to lead effectively grows when you focus on the things within your reach.
4. Identify What Motivates You
Leading others requires clarity about what keeps you energised. Are you the type who thrives on ticking off a to-do list? Or maybe your morning routine sets the tone for your day? If you’re a planner, lean into that strength. Use your diary to block out not just work tasks but also breaks to recharge.
For some, it’s about setting boundaries around when to switch off. For others, it’s finding joy in small moments—a good cup of coffee, a chat with a colleague, or a quiet walk to clear your head. Whatever it is, prioritise it. When you’re motivated and grounded, it’s easier to uplift those around you.
Final Thoughts
Leadership isn’t about being superhuman. It’s about staying connected to what keeps you energised and passing that energy on to your team in ways that are thoughtful, intentional, and real.
So, next time you feel your energy dipping, revisit these four strategies: Be the constant, hand-hold when needed, focus on your locus of control, and lean into what motivates you. It’s not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about showing up consistently with care and clarity.
Go well this week,
Mary-Anne
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