Being a good person isn’t all that complicated — in fact, it’s quite the opposite.
All it requires is a mix of qualities and habits that literally anyone can hone with a little self-awareness and effort. Here are 15 things that, if they ring true for you, mean you’re doing alright, and should give yourself a pat on the back. No one says you need to be perfect — you just want to do your best.
1. You can laugh at yourself.
We all make silly mistakes, trip over our own feet, or say something a bit off. If you can have a chuckle at your own expense, rather than getting all red-faced and embarrassed, it’s a sign you’re not taking yourself too seriously. It shows you’re confident enough to embrace your imperfections and that you don’t mind being a bit goofy sometimes. Laughter is good for the soul, after all.
2. You’re curious about the world.
Whether it’s reading up on random facts, asking questions in conversations, or trying out new hobbies, you’ve got a thirst for knowledge and experiences. You’re not content with just accepting things at face value; you want to dig deeper, understand how things work, and explore different perspectives. Life’s a big adventure, and you’re keen to see what it has to offer.
3. You’re comfortable in your own skin.
You don’t feel the need to put on a front or pretend to be someone you’re not. You’re happy being yourself, quirks and all. You embrace your strengths and weaknesses, and you’re not afraid to show your true colours. This kind of genuine vibe is something people are drawn to; it’s refreshing and inspiring to be around someone who’s so comfortable in their own skin.
4. You’re kind to others (and to yourself).
You’re the one offering a helping hand, a listening ear, or a shoulder to cry on. You spread positivity wherever you go, lifting people up with your words and actions. And just as importantly, you treat yourself with the same kindness and respect. You know that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for being able to show up for others.
5. You’re not afraid to say sorry.
Owning up to your mistakes and apologising when you’ve messed up is a sign of strength, not weakness. It shows you’re mature enough to take responsibility for your actions and care about how they affect others. It also demonstrates that you’re willing to learn from your mistakes and become a better person.
6. You’re a good listener.
You actually pay attention when someone’s talking, rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. You make eye contact, nod along, and ask thoughtful questions. You genuinely care about what other people have to say, and you’re not afraid to share your own thoughts and feelings in return. This creates a deeper connection with others and fosters trust and understanding.
7. You’re open to new ideas.
You’re not stuck in your ways, and you’re willing to consider different perspectives. You’re not afraid of a bit of change, and you know that sometimes the best way to grow is to step outside your comfort zone. You’re curious about the world and eager to learn from different experiences. This open-mindedness allows you to expand your horizons and embrace new opportunities.
8. You’re passionate about something.
Whether it’s your job, your hobbies, your family, or a cause you believe in, you’ve got something that lights a fire in your belly. That passion is contagious and makes life a whole lot more exciting. It gives you a sense of purpose and drives you to achieve your goals. When you’re passionate about something, it shows in your energy, your enthusiasm, and your dedication. It’s inspiring to be around someone who’s so passionate about life.
9. You’re empathetic.
You can put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand how they’re feeling, even if you haven’t been through the same experience. You offer a listening ear, a kind word, or a helping hand without judgement. You truly care about other people and want to make a positive impact on their lives.
10. You’re resilient.
Source: Unsplash Life throws curveballs, but you don’t let them knock you down for long. You bounce back from setbacks, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward. You have a positive outlook on life and believe that challenges are opportunities for growth. Your resilience inspires those around you and shows them that it’s possible to overcome adversity.
11. You’re honest and trustworthy.
You value integrity and honesty in your interactions with people. You’re someone people can rely on to keep their word, be there for them, and offer genuine support. You’re not afraid to speak your truth, even when it’s difficult, and you always strive to do what’s right. Your honesty and trustworthiness build strong relationships and earn you respect.
12. You’re supportive of everyone.
You’re chuffed for people’s success and offer encouragement during challenging times. You believe in the potential of those around you and want to see them thrive. You’re always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement. Your support helps people feel seen, valued, and empowered to achieve their goals.
13. You have a sense of humour.
Source: Unsplash You don’t take life too seriously and can find humour in everyday situations. You enjoy making people laugh and brightening their day with your wit and jokes. Your sense of humour helps you connect with people, relieve stress, and navigate life’s ups and downs with a smile on your face.
14. You’re adaptable.
You’re not afraid of change and can easily adjust to new situations. You’re flexible in your thinking and can find creative solutions to problems. You embrace the unexpected and see it as an opportunity for growth. Your adaptability allows you to thrive in a constantly changing world and navigate life’s challenges with grace.
15. You’re grateful for the good things in your life.
Source: Unsplash You take time to appreciate the small things that bring you joy, whether it’s a beautiful sunset, a delicious meal, or a good conversation with a friend. You express gratitude for the people in your life and the opportunities you’ve been given. This positive outlook fosters a sense of contentment and well-being, and it makes you a pleasure to be around.
