How to cultivate altruistic behavior? Try these 10 selfless tips
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA
Learn what altruistic behavior is, including examples, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Plus, how to cultivate altruistic behavior with 10 mindful tips.
Nothing is more heartwarming than when somebody does something kind without expecting anything in return. There’s a reason these stories always go viral — who doesn’t like to be reminded of how wonderful people can be?
Altruistic behavior can encompass grand gestures, such as giving away large sums of money, and small acts of kindness, like picking up the tab at lunch. Psychologists believe that altruism is at least partially driven by compassion and a genuine desire to make the world a better place — but it can be learned too.
You may be asking yourself, “Is behavior truly altruistic if you’re cultivating benefits?” Fair question! It’s certainly debatable, but one thing is for sure: Increasing your altruistic tendencies can help you grow as a person.
What is altruistic behavior?
Altruistic behavior is when you put others' needs ahead of your own, often sacrificing your time, resources, or comfort to help.
From small gestures, like holding the door open for someone, to major sacrifices, like donating a kidney, people everywhere engage in altruistic acts every day. It’s part of the common humanity that binds us together.
Practicing altruism can lead to a more compassionate and connected world, where we all look out for one another and work together to create a better future for all.
Why are people interested in practicing altruism or selflessness?
Several psychological and social theories may help to explain why people engage in selfless acts.
Empathy-altruism hypothesis: This suggests that when we feel empathy for someone, we’re more likely to help them out of pure selflessness.
Social exchange theory: This proposes that people who act selflessly may also reap benefits, such as feeling good about themselves or gaining social approval. Knowing there are benefits — does that make the act purely altruistic? You decide.
Evolutionary psychology: By helping others, some theories suggest that people may help to increase the chances of survival for their relatives, thereby passing on shared genes.
Sociocultural theories: In many societies, helping others is seen as a moral duty and is highly valued as a cultural norm.
Potential benefits of altruistic behavior
Altruistic behavior can have many positive impacts. Some may be physical, while others might be emotional, but the person receiving the help isn’t the only person who benefits. Everyone’s a winner!
Improved mental health
Helping others may help to reduce the symptoms of stress and depression. This can lead to physical health benefits as well such as better mood, increased happiness, and purpose.
Increased happiness
Altruistic acts may lead to a "helper's high,” or a rush of positive feelings for the person who’s giving back. Being happier in your day to day life can help boost your mood, creativity, and productivity.
Stronger social connections
Pitching in may help strengthen your community and your own place in it. Helping others also can help you build more solid relationships — and meet new people too.
Sense of purpose
Making a difference may feel like it gives your life more meaning. When you focus on others, you begin to realize how interconnected the world is, and how important you really are.
Positive ripple effect
You may inspire others to spread kindness. When you set a good example by making a difference in the lives of others, your friends and family may want to follow suit.
Are there possible drawbacks to altruistic behavior?
While altruistic behavior is generally positive, there can be drawbacks if you don’t prioritize your own needs at times too. Take care of yourself and set healthy boundaries to maintain your wellbeing and ability to help.
Potential burnout
Burnout is especially common in people who work in caregiving roles or who volunteer extensively without taking time for themselves. It can cause physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion, making it difficult to continue helping others.
Take regular breaks and carve out dedicated time to prioritize self-care. Set limits on the time and energy you devote to helping others so you can protect your own wellbeing.
Neglecting your personal needs
Focusing too much on others might mean you neglect your own health, hobbies, or responsibilities. This can lead to feelings of resentment or frustration — which isn’t good for anyone.
Schedule time for activities that you enjoy and that help you relax. Prioritize your own health and wellbeing so you can continue to help others. If you’re stuck, check out these 20+ ideas for self-care practices (even for the busiest of people).
Feeling taken advantage of
Some people might take more than their fair share of your time, resources, or energy, which could make you feel used or unappreciated, especially if it’s a regular experience.
Set clear boundaries and say no when necessary. Recognize when someone’s taking advantage of your kindness, and protect your wellbeing by being mindful of how much you’re giving and to whom.
Stress and overwhelm
Witnessing suffering or hardship can lead to secondary traumatic stress, which is similar to post-traumatic stress.
Seek support from friends, family, support groups, or professionals to help you process them and reduce emotional strain.
Financial strain
Donating money or resources to help others can cause financial problems if you give more than you can afford.
Budget an amount each month for charitable donations, and stick to it. Remember that non-monetary contributions, like your time and skills, are also valuable.
Feeling overcommitted
Taking on too many altruistic activities can make it difficult to manage your time and responsibilities. This can cause stress and decrease your effectiveness in helping others.
Focus on a few key causes and activities where you can make the most impact, so your contributions stay meaningful and sustainable.
Feeling guilt or obligation
Engaging in altruism because of guilt or obligation—rather than genuine desire—doesn’t always feel great.
Ensure your actions come from a place of compassion and a real wish to make a difference. It’s okay to take a step back if you need to.
What does selflessness look like? 8 examples of altruistic behavior
No matter how big or small the gesture is, altruistic behavior can benefit both the giver and the receiver, creating a more caring and supportive community.
1. Volunteering in your community
Working at a local shelter, tutoring children, or supporting community fundraising events — you can do a number of activities that speak to your interests and passions.
2. Donating to charity
There are many charities that you can back. You may consider donating to a food bank or giving to disaster relief organizations.
3. Helping strangers (when safe to do so)
You don’t have to know someone to be kind to them. Try holding the door open for someone, helping an older person carry groceries, or giving directions to someone who’s lost. Remember if you ever feel unsafe in any situation with a stranger it’s okay to express empathy and move on.
4. Offering emotional support for others
Comforting a friend who’s going through a tough time or listening to someone who needs to talk can help them feel understood and less alone.
5. Getting involved in community clean-up
Picking up litter, planting trees, or maintaining public spaces can help protect the environment and benefit everyone in the community.
6. Sharing your skills as a mentor
Providing guidance, advice, and support in schools, workplaces, or community organizations can help mentees navigate challenges, build new skills, and achieve their goals.
7. Donating blood if you feel comfortable
Donating blood can save lives of people undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, or emergency care.
8. Performing random acts of kindness
Doing little things, such as leaving a kind note for a neighbor or baking cookies for your coworkers, can make a big difference in a person’s day.
How to cultivate altruistic behavior? 10 ways to practice the art of selflessness
By following these tips, you can develop your altruistic behavior and contribute to creating a more compassionate and connected world. This can benefit those you help and also enhances your own sense of purpose and wellbeing — as long as you don’t expect anything in return.
1. Volunteer regularly
Choose causes that resonate with you so you’re more likely to make a habit of volunteering. Consistently giving back to others can build character and strengthen your connection to your community.
2. Practice empathy
Actively listen when people talk about their experiences, and try to understand their emotions and perspectives. This deeper connection can inspire you to act altruistically.
💙 In this meditation, Tamara Levitt digs into how increasing Empathy can impact your relationships.
3. Set thoughtful goals
Try to perform random acts of kindness regularly. Small gestures, like paying for someone’s coffee or helping a neighbor with their yard work, can encourage a culture of kindness.
💙 Get a deeper Perspective on Your Goals with this meditation from Jay Shetty.
4. Give sincere compliments
Notice and acknowledge the good qualities and achievements of those around you. This can boost their confidence and mood, and help nurture positive relationships.
5. Donate your time or money — and remember it doesn’t need to be excessive
Support local foundations, global organizations, or causes that are important to you. Even small amounts can make a difference to those in need.
6. Develop a helping mindset
Look for opportunities to assist people in your daily life, whether it’s offering to help a coworker with a project, running an errand for a neighbor, or supporting a friend in need.
💙 Meaningful Practice for Meaningful Friendship are guided meditations that can help you learn to be a better friend — no matter what’s happening in your relationships.
7. Get clued up on social issues
Read articles, attend events, and take part in discussions to build empathy for different communities. This can inspire you to lend your support to create positive change.
8. Join a community group
Join a neighborhood association, school club, or workplace committee — or start a new one. Working with others can amplify your impact and create a supportive network of like-minded people.
💙 In the Relationships With Others series, you’ll learn how to deepen your existing friendships and start new ones.
9. Reflect on the impact of your altruism on yourself and others
Keep a journal of your altruistic activities and how they made you and others feel. These reflections can help reinforce the positive effects and motivate you to continue.
💙 Not sure where to start with self-reflection? Jay Shetty’s True Reflections meditation can help you explore how clearly you see yourself.
10. Set a positive example of altruism for others
Encourage your friends, family, and people in your community to join you in volunteering and performing acts of kindness and community service. Spreading altruism can create a ripple effect, inspiring more people to be selfless.
💙 In the Ripples of loving-kindness meditation, you’ll learn about how to cultivate compassion.
Altruistic behavior FAQs
How does altruistic behavior differ from prosocial behavior?
Altruistic behavior involves selfless acts without expecting any reward or recognition. It comes from a genuine concern for the wellbeing of others and often involves giving time, money or effort.
Prosocial behavior includes any action intended to benefit others. It can be motivated by altruism, but also by reciprocity, or even self-interest. For example, you might babysit a neighbor’s kid with the expectation that they’ll help you with childcare in future. While all altruistic behaviors are prosocial, not all prosocial behaviors are altruistic.
Can altruism be learned or is it innate?
Altruism can be both innate and learned. Innate altruism is believed to be a natural part of human behavior, rooted in evolutionary history. From an early age, children often display spontaneous acts of helping, sharing, and comforting others, which suggests that humans have a natural tendency toward altruistic behavior.
However, altruism can be learned and strengthened through socialization, education, and personal experiences too. Families, schools, and communities can teach and encourage altruistic behavior. Positive reinforcement, role modeling, and involvement in community service can all help enhance altruistic tendencies as well.
What motivates people to engage in altruistic acts?
Several factors motivate people to engage in altruistic acts.
Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others
Moral values: Personal beliefs and values about what’s right and wrong
Social norms: Cultural and societal expectations
Personal satisfaction: Finding joy, fulfillment, and purpose in helping others
How can organizations encourage altruistic behavior among employees?
Organizations can encourage a culture of altruism in employees by following carefully chosen strategies.
Promote volunteer programs: Offer opportunities for employees to volunteer during work hours, either individually or as a team-building activity.
Recognize and reward altruism: Acknowledge and celebrate employees’ altruistic behavior through awards, recognition programs, or public commendations.
Build a supportive environment: Make kindness, empathy, and cooperation your workplace values. Provide training on emotional intelligence and the benefits of altruism.
Ease charitable giving: Enable employees to donate to charities through payroll deductions or company matching programs.
Encourage employee-led initiatives: Support employees in starting their own altruistic projects or initiatives, providing resources and time to develop these ideas.
Are there any cultural differences in how altruism is perceived and practiced?
Cultural differences can significantly influence how altruism is perceived and practiced, as it can be shaped by social norms, values, religions, and traditions.
Collectivist cultures: Many Asian and African societies emphasize community and family over individual needs. There’s a strong expectation of supporting and helping one another.
Individualist cultures: Many Western societies focus on personal achievement and independence. Altruistic acts may focus more on volunteering and charitable donations to causes outside your immediate social circle.
Religious and moral teachings: Many religions encourage followers to help others and perform acts of kindness.
Socioeconomic factors: In economically disadvantaged communities, altruistic acts may focus on providing basic needs and mutual support within the community.
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