Day 23: A Stocking

Filled with Goodness

Photo by Donna Spearman on Unsplash

I love the phrase “filled with goodness.” I could say it over and over with a big North Pole Elf smile all over my face. Filled with Goodness!

Goodness in social science research is defined, in part, as kindness, compassion, and prosocial behavior (behavior that benefits and shows concern for others). Multiple theorists believe we have an instinct for kindness and compassion as humans, but that we need to nurture it and model it for others, especially children.

Goodness is a muscle that needs to be trained.

Goodness and kindness have many benefits. They boost the feel-good hormones in your brain and help provide a buffer against stress. And kindness is an important predictor in a lasting, satisfying partnership or marriage (Check out the Gottman Institute).

The holidays are a nice time to practice goodness. Call a friend or neighbor. Do a small daily kindness for someone. Volunteer. And don’t forget to reflect that kindness back at yourself.

Below are some reflection prompts about kindness and a mini kindness challenge…