10 of 76

Yes

Write now Article Tools

Giving is really better than receiving. Although we all like to receive gifts from our friends and loved ones, and especially those we shower upon ourselves (as "treats" or compensation for tough times), giving really does provide more satisfaction in the end. Why? Because giving a gift (or even just a compliment) to someone else is building a human connection, and there is no item that we can own that can provide the same psychological power. We're all "people needing people," a cliched as the song lyrics may sound. We need the interaction and support of others to get us through life, to feel human.

When it comes to the holidays, the idea of gift giving or just giving in general (charitable donations) has become more of a routine than a thoughtful process. We weigh our self-worth by the monetary value attached to the gifts we give and receive. Yet we are missing the greatest value in the process: acknowledging the importance that others have in our lives. In the flurry of shopping and celebrating, we often forget the core, why we participate in rituals like holidays in the first place. It provides an opportunity to stop the routine of life and take a look at the big picture. It's a time to cherish those we love and value.

As a result, those gifts that touch the heart, that indicate the person really thought carefully about the recipient, are what giving is all about. The look on a friend's face when they know that we have chosen something that speaks to who they are as individuals really helps to illuminate the point. Giving to others is really something we do for ourselves.

Learn more about this author, Christine Zibas.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Is giving really better than receiving??
We want to hear your view. Write now!