According to studies, the old adage that “it’s better to give than receive” appears to be correct. Spending money on others or giving to charities puts a bigger smile on the “giver’s” face than buying things for themselves. There is no better time to put this into action than on National Give Something Away Day on July 15, 2017.

National Give Something Away Day is an opportunity to treat somebody–buying a cup of coffee for those who serve in the community (policemen, firemen, sheriff’s officers), donating new shoes or a coat to a less fortunate person or sending flowers to brighten another’s day. The result is twofold—you reap the benefits of making a positive impact on somebody else’s day and feel happy.

A study showed that 632 Americans were asked how much they earned, the ways they spent their cash and to rate their own happiness. The people who spent money on others reported more happiness, while those individuals who spent more money on themselves did not.

In another study by Harvard Business School professors, 46 volunteers were given envelopes containing either $5 or $20 to spend on themselves or somebody else. The group that spent money on other people felt happier—no matter what the amount of money they were given.

So, celebrate National Give Something Away Day and buy a cup of coffee for the person behind you in line; clean out the closet or garage and make a donation; or, deliver canned goods to the local food pantry. There are numerous other ways to give something away on July 15. The result will be two happier people.

Reasons Why Giving is More Important than Receiving

Mahatma Gandhi said “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” and there is no better time than on National Give Something Away Day on July 15 to begin.

While it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life—striving for success, purchasing the latest gadgets and seeking great relationships—the joy of giving may have taken a back seat in life. On National Give Something Away Day and throughout the year, giving positively will impact your life. The following list of reasons can guide you on a path to more happiness and fulfillment.

Helps Others

The world can be a dark place for those who have little or nothing. Generosity and kindness shown to those who are less fortunate adds to their lives—and yours, too.

National Give Something Away Day!

Inspires Giving

People who have received kindness often pay it forward and give to others even when they have little. The cycle of giving makes the world a better, more humane place to live. Being a role model for those around you—especially younger individuals who may feel entitled to receive what they want—puts the cycle of giving in motion.

Teaches Responsibility

There are times the giver will donate to a cause regardless of their own financial standing. This may be a lesson about how to do certain things in order to make the donation, such as watching spending habits and being more frugal during the month. You may realize you don’t need that much in life to be happy.

Cultivates Self-Worth

There is nothing wrong with feeling proud of your generosity. The giver and receiver both bask in the effects that giving brings, and it is a good way to start believing in you.

Makes You Happy

Seeing the smiles, gratitude and expressions of hope on the faces of others you have shown kindness to make the act of giving worthwhile. As research has shown, people who spent money on others even though they had the option to spend it on themselves were happier.

It Makes a Difference

It does not matter how much or how little you give. When you have the power to touch the life of another individual, you can affect them in numerous ways. While it is easy to be cynical and think the help you give is negligible, it only takes one small gesture of kindness to change somebody’s life.

It is Easy

Giving comes in many forms, such as time, warmth and friendship, listening, being a shoulder to lean on, and materially. Whichever way you choose to give can lead you on a path to real happiness.