Please Yourself!

Amid the hustle and bustle of life, the act of tending to others’ needs often gets eclipsed by our individual ambitions. Yet, there’s a profound and enlightening reality that lurks beneath this mundane routine. Catering to the needs of those around us is not just a selfless act; it’s a gateway to our inner satisfaction. Let’s delve into this intricate connection that binds our happiness with the happiness of others.

Pleasing Others, Pleasing Ourselves

At first glance, attending to others’ needs might seem a chore or even a burden. However, scratch beneath the surface, and we can uncover a rich and rewarding experience that resonates with our intrinsic human nature as social animals.

1. Understanding Human Connection

Humans are social beings. We thrive in communities, forging bonds with family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. When we help others, we’re essentially nurturing these connections, thereby enhancing our own sense of belonging and joy. It’s a symbiotic relationship, where our compassion fuels both our happiness and that of the person to whose needs we’re attending.

2. The Joy of Giving

The pleasure derived from giving is often more rewarding than receiving. When we see the impact our help has on someone’s life, a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment washes over us. It’s not just about solving a problem; it’s about adding value to someone’s life and, in turn, enriching our own existence.

3. The Psychological Perspective

From the viewpoint of organisational psychotherapy, attending to others’ needs within a corporate setting can lead to a more harmonious and productive work environment, witgh increased engaement and discretionary effort. By understanding and fulfilling the needs of colleagues, we foster a sense of trust and cooperation that makes daily work more enjoyable and effective.

4. Building Self-esteem and Confidence

When we help others, we also enhance our sense of self-worth. We see ourselves as capable, compassionate, and valuable. This boost in self-esteem doesn’t just brighten our mood; it adds a layer of resilience to face life’s challenges with confidence.

5. The Moral Compass

Attending to others’ needs aligns with many moral and ethical principles found across various cultures. By doing good for others, we’re living a life congruent with these values, leading to a sense of satisfaction and contentment.

Summary

Attending to others’ needs isn’t just about them; it’s equally about us. It’s a shared journey of joy, understanding, compassion, and fulfilment that enriches life in multifaceted ways. In serving others, we find a reflection of ourselves, and through that reflection, we discover pleasure, purpose, and a profound connection to the world around us.

Let’s not underestimate the power of compassion and empathy. Let’s embrace the pleasure of pleasing others and realise that in the process, we’re indeed pleasing ourselves.