I’m sure you may have heard the phrase that “it’s better to give than receive.” However, do you think giving is really more important than receiving? Or are they equally significant? Giving and receiving both play an important role in bringing people happiness, but both of these activities are the keys to a better life.
Professional speaker and author Brian Tracy once said, “Always give without remembering and always receive without forgetting.” Tracy is correct, because you should always give without expecting anything in return, and when you’re helped out or given something, you should always be grateful.
In an article from the Cleveland Clinic, the author argues that the benefits of giving include lower blood pressure, increased self-esteem, less depresion, lower stress levels, a longer life, and greater happiness and satisfaction.
Remember that when you give a gift, price doesn’t matter! It can be something big or small, as long as it’s given with love. It can be a card, flowers, or something handmade. Personally, I like giving my time to my family and friends.
You can also give to your community. Do something kind for your neighbor, help someone with a problem, pray for someone, volunteer, or recycle. Do anything that is within your strength.
Since we’re in a pandemic, it’s really hard giving people gifts. However, it’s not impossible. You can set aside time during the day to FaceTime with someone important to you, or you can send them an encouraging text.
Author Amy Hunsted argues you “cannot give without someone else being willing to receive,” and that, “someone else cannot give if you are not also willing to receive.” Giving and receiving work both ways.
When you receive a gift, be thankful and appreciative. The giver will already be happy to give you a present, but the way you react will also bring the giver even more joy.
One thing I’ve noticed is that people give only on special occasions, but it’s better to give whenever you can. It doesn’t have to be a holiday. Even giving someone hope or a warm smile can brighten their day. Giving and receiving are both required for happiness.
Therefore, become a wonderful giver and an appreciative receiver. Give whenever you can and humbly receive at every occasion. This way, we can all form stronger relationships.
