We all have our moments of self-doubt, wondering if we really have a good heart and are kind, or if there are ways we could improve our kindness and generosity.
Bringing a positive reality check your way: You’re probably a lot better than even you give yourself credit for.
With so much emphasis placed on ways we could do better, we tend to overlook our achievements. In doing so, we forget about the signs that serve as a clear indicator that you’re a pure-hearted individual (even if you don’t always feel like it.)
It’s unfortunate, but we often underestimate our own worth and over-criticize ourselves.
That being said, if you identify with these ten signs, take it from me: You’re a better person than most people think!
1) Embracing empathy
Empathy allows us to connect on a deeper level with others, to understand their feelings and perspectives, and to use our own energy to help those around us.
If you’re the type to easily place yourself in other people’s shoes, sharing in their joy or pain, it’s a sign you’re a genuinely good person.
And in doing so, you’re not merely barging in and trying to change someone or offering unsolicited advice. You listen, you understand, and you do whatever you can to remedy their suffering.
People notice this goodness you have. They appreciate your ability to listen, to understand, and to empathize.
So if you recognize a good dose of empathy in yourself, rest assured – you’re a better person than most people think.
2) Kindness comes naturally
Imagine this: It’s a busy work day, and you’re running marginally late. On the metro suitcases, you pass a mother struggling to drag her heavy pushchair up the stairs whilst also holding onto two young children. Do you…
- Stop and offer your assistance in carrying the pram.
- Shuffle past with a commiserating glance (you feel bad for her but don’t want to risk running late).
If you selected A), you likely have a big and generous heart and are incredibly kind and driven by nature.
This type of pure kindness is a virtue not everyone possesses. It doesn’t involve only grand gestures or public displays (typically performed for clout).
It’s about those small, everyday acts that often go unnoticed but make a huge difference.
If you lean into these acts of kindness – no matter how small – without a second thought, you’re indeed a better person than most people think.
3) Able to admit when you’re wrong
Nobody likes to be wrong, whether insisting it’s a Monday (it’s actually Wednesday), or being absolutely adamant that dogs only see in black and white (they don’t).
But here’s the raw truth: admitting when you’re wrong is a sign of strength, not weakness.
We all make mistakes. Slipping up is a big part of being human.
But what sets a good person apart is their inherent ability to accept their flaws, apologize sincerely, and learn from their missteps.
If you can look in the mirror, admit your mistakes and take steps to rectify them, you’re indeed a better person than most people give you credit for.
It’s a difficult trait to master, particularly if your ego is linked to your desire to appear right, but being able to admit your mistakes is a clear indication of integrity and humility.
4) Goodbye toxic positivity
As surprising as it may seem, not always being positive can actually indicate a good person, with a realistic outlook on life. This doesn’t mean you have to moan and grumble and see negativity everywhere you go.
Shunning toxic positivity and avoiding statements like, “it could be worse” and “someone out there has it worse than you so get over it”, shows the ability to face reality without sugarcoating it.
Because, let’s be honest – life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. It’s a rollercoaster of ups and downs, and acknowledging this fact is crucial for our mental health.
So, if you’re not always positive and allow yourself to feel and express a range of emotions, you’re likely more genuine and emotionally intelligent than most people recognize.
5) Good listening skills
Listening is a skill that underpins happy relationships, career success, and general fortitude across all aspects of life.
In addition, the reality is that being a good listener is a clear sign of respect, understanding, and genuine interest in others.
People love to talk about themselves, and fully appreciate when the person they’re speaking to actually listens to all that they have to say.
This isn’t to say that you always have to quietly and politely listen, and never get a word in edgeways.
People do just tend to appreciate a good listener more than a good talker. Being able to listen (using all of your active listening skills!), while showing empathy and understanding can turn an ordinary conversation into a meaningful and memorable connection.
So if you’re someone who truly listens when others speak, you’re undoubtedly a better person than you might think
6) Respecting other people’s boundaries
Personal space, private matters, personal property – you acknowledge and respect other people set towards their space.
Respecting others’ boundaries is a clear sign of understanding and emotional maturity. You know full well how important each of these factors is to a person, and do your utmost not to intrude both physically and emotionally.
You don’t force people to open up about topics they’re not ready or willing to discuss. You care for items you borrow as if they were your own. You’re always cautious of physical space and would never want someone to feel uncomfortable owing to your actions.
In today’s world, it’s almost more common to have your space invaded and your boundaries neglected, so if you’re someone who naturally respects others’ space and boundaries, you’re doing better than most.
7) Alone time isn’t scary
In fact, quite the opposite!
Strangely enough, being comfortable with your own company is a sign that you’re a good person with a whole bunch of good traits.
Being able to spend time alone without feeling uneasy or otherwise craving attention demonstrates self-sufficiency, introspection, and the ability to enjoy life without constantly validation.
It’s not about isolating yourself but rather about enjoying your own company and using that time for self-reflection and growth.
Psychology touts all the benefits alone time brings, including space for creativity and reflection.
So, if you enjoy spending time alone, don’t worry – it’s actually a sign that you’re more emotionally mature and self-aware than most people realize.
8) You’re grateful for everything that comes your way
Practicing gratitude is a powerful sign that you’re a genuinely good person. It shows a positive attitude, an appreciation for life’s blessings, and the ability to focus on the good – even when life gets tough.
And by gratitude, I don’t mean ignoring life’s difficulties and sticking your head in the sand, but rather choosing to find and acknowledge joy in the blessings we do have.
If you regularly find yourself reflecting on all the great things you get to experience – maybe even journaling or keeping a note of them – take this as a big sign that you’re doing a better job than most at enjoying life.
9) Unafraid of meaty conversations
Difficult conversations are just that. Difficult. They’re uncomfortable and often avoided owing to fear of conflict.
However, if you’re someone who doesn’t shy away from these trickier discussions, it shows a clear commitment to honesty, transparency, and maintaining healthy relationships.
These sorts of conversations are necessary if you want to grow and evolve as a person. They may involve admitting a mistake (which you’re likely more than capable of), confronting someone, or owning up to a painful truth.
If you don’t shy away from hard conversations when they’re needed, you’re demonstrating a clear ability to put growth and development above your comfort.
10) Able to ask for & accept help
For many people (myself included), hyperindependence and trust issues mean that asking for help, let alone accepting, it is incredibly difficult.
But the truth of the matter is that being able to ask and involve other people is actually a strength. It shows humility, vulnerability, and the recognition that we can’t do everything alone.
We all need a little support and guidance from time to time. Embracing this and opening up to assistance is a clear sign of maturity and self-awareness.
So, if you’re someone who reaches out when you’re in over your head, be proud!
Your ability to reflect and realize that a little help would go a long way is a sure sign that you’re a humble and approachable person.
