According to the latest World Happiness Report, despite a perception of a harsh and unfriendly world, acts of kindness are prevalent. Released annually on the International Day of Happiness, the report, prepared in collaboration with Gallup, the University of Oxford, and the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, highlighted a focus on benevolence and community expectations this year.
Key findings show that 70% of individuals worldwide performed at least one act of kindness in the previous month, which is a promising statistic, but lower than during the COVID-19 pandemic. Acts of kindness were categorised into three types: monetary donations, volunteering time, and random acts of kindness for strangers. Dr Felix Cheung, a co-author of the report, emphasized the significance of this high number, suggesting it should instil optimism in communities.
Even small acts of kindness can significantly impact happiness, with evidence indicating that they foster well-being for both givers and receivers. Ilana Ron-Levey from Gallup stated that generosity is a stronger predictor of happiness than financial gain. Studies on how people spend money revealed that those who spent it on others typically reported feeling happier than those who spent it on themselves.
The report also explored public perceptions of kindness, revealing a concerning gap between people’s expectations and the reality of kindness in their communities. Dr Lara Aknin noted that individuals tend to underestimate the goodwill of others, with perceptions of kindness in the US particularly low compared to other countries. For instance, only 52nd place was reported for trusting strangers to return lost items, a stark contrast to actual high return rates observed in prior studies.
Aknin’s research underlines the importance of social connections, positing that a decline in perceived community kindness can lead to increased fear and reduced quality of life. She introduced the concept of the “three C’s” of kindness: connection, choice, and clear impact. Engaging in social activities, acting out of genuine desire rather than obligation, and witnessing the positive effects of one’s actions are essential in enhancing the happiness derived from acts of generosity.
Moreover, societal shifts towards isolation, such as increased rates of solitary dining, correlate with a decline in life satisfaction and community engagement. The report ultimately illustrates that fostering a sense of community and trust can counteract feelings of isolation and improve overall happiness.
Countries like Finland consistently rank high in happiness, attributed to strong social networks and community support. Encouraging optimism and positive expectations regarding the kindness in one’s surroundings can significantly enhance personal and collective well-being.