What makes a good person? It’s a question we ask often at Gladly Network, not because we think we have all the answers, but because we believe in the ripple effect of everyday goodness.
Being a good person isn’t about grand gestures or perfection. It’s about choosing empathy, integrity, and kindness in the moments that matter, and then doing it again tomorrow.
In this post, we’ll explore the qualities that define genuinely good people, the everyday actions that set them apart, and how all of us can grow into better versions of ourselves, one small step at a time.
What Defines a Good Person’s Character?
At Gladly Network, we believe that good character forms the foundation of a positive society. While many traits contribute to being a good person, some stand out as particularly impactful.
The Power of Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s not just about feeling sorry for someone; it’s about truly putting yourself in their shoes. A study found a correlation between empathic concern and various prosocial behaviors, including informal help to individuals.
To cultivate empathy, try to actively listen to others without interrupting or judging. Practice perspective-taking by imagining how you’d feel in someone else’s situation. These small steps can lead to more meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of those around you.
Integrity in Action
Integrity means consistently adhering to strong moral and ethical principles. It’s about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. The Global Business Ethics Survey (GBES) provides global benchmark data on the state of ethics and compliance in business across the globe.
To build integrity, start by keeping your promises, no matter how small. Be honest in your interactions, even when it’s uncomfortable. When you make a mistake, own up to it quickly and take steps to make it right. These actions build trust and respect in both personal and professional relationships.
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
Kindness can transform not just individuals, but entire communities. A 2021 study from UCLA found that small, thoughtful acts reduce stress and improve well-being.
Even simple gestures can create a ripple effect. Think of kindness as a spark, it catches on quickly.
Try these ideas to build the habit:
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Offer a genuine compliment at work
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Help a neighbor with a task
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Smile at someone you pass on the street
These moments don’t just brighten someone’s day, they invite others to do the same.
The Journey of Self-Improvement
You don’t have to be flawless to make a difference. What matters is consistency. Every time you choose empathy over judgment or kindness over indifference, you build a better version of yourself and a better world around you.
As we explore the actions that define a good person in the next section, we’ll see how these core character traits manifest in everyday life and shape our interactions with others.
How Do Good People Act?
Selfless Service
Good people don’t wait to be asked; they notice, and they show up. Acts of service can be small or significant, but they’re always meaningful. For example:
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Help a colleague meet a deadline
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Offer to babysit for a friend in need
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Volunteer once a month at a shelter or pantry
A study found that 23.2% of American adults volunteer, contributing an estimated $122.9 billion worth of service. This selfless giving benefits both the recipients and enhances the giver’s well-being.
Moral Courage
Standing up for what’s right, even when it’s difficult, marks good people. This might involve speaking out against discrimination, reporting unethical behavior at work, or defending someone who faces bullying. The Workplace Bullying Institute reports that 30% of workers have suffered abusive conduct at work (highlighting the need for more people to stand up against such behavior). To cultivate moral courage, educate yourself on important issues, practice speaking up in low-stakes situations, and surround yourself with like-minded individuals who support your values.
Empathetic Interactions
Good people consistently show respect and consideration in their interactions with others. This involves listening actively, showing genuine interest in others’ perspectives, and remaining mindful of cultural differences. To improve in this area, practice active listening techniques, ask thoughtful questions, and make an effort to understand different viewpoints before forming judgments.
Celebrating Acts of Kindness
Recognizing kindness is just as important as practicing it. That’s why Gladly Network launched #getgladly, a campaign where stories of everyday good deeds are shared and celebrated.
Participants can win gifts from partner brands, but the true reward is spreading positivity. Sharing inspires action. Action creates change. #getgladly is how we pass it on.
Practicing Forgiveness
Good people understand the power of forgiveness. They recognize that holding grudges often hurts the grudge-holder more than the offender. Practicing forgiveness doesn’t mean condoning harmful actions, but rather choosing to let go of negative emotions for one’s well-being. Studies have shown that forgiveness can lead to reduced stress, improved mental health, and better relationships. To cultivate forgiveness, try to empathize with others’ perspectives, focus on personal growth rather than revenge, and seek professional help if needed to process deep-seated resentments.
As we explore these actions that define good people, it becomes clear that being a good person involves consistent effort and mindful choices. In the next section, we’ll discuss how individuals can develop and strengthen these positive traits and behaviors in their own lives.
How to Develop Good Character
Practice Self-Reflection
Self-reflection serves as a powerful tool for personal growth. Set aside time each day to review your actions and decisions. The practice itself is all about learning, looking back on the day (without bias or regret) to contemplate your behavior and its consequences.
To make self-reflection a habit, try journaling for 10 minutes each evening. Write down three things you did well and one area where you’d like to improve. This practice helps you recognize your strengths and identify areas for growth.
Learn from Failures
Mistakes and failures are inevitable, but they also serve as valuable teachers. Instead of dwelling on your shortcomings, focus on extracting lessons from these experiences.
Research from Stanford University shows that individuals who view failures as opportunities for growth tend to be more resilient and successful in the long run.
After a setback, ask yourself: “What can I learn from this experience? How can I use this knowledge to make better decisions in the future?” This mindset shift transforms failures from sources of shame into catalysts for personal development.
Create Positive Habits
Good character is built through consistent, positive actions. Start by identifying one trait you’d like to strengthen (such as kindness or integrity). Then, create a specific, actionable habit that supports this trait.
For example, if you want to cultivate kindness, commit to performing one random act of kindness each day. It could be as simple as complimenting a coworker or helping a neighbor with a task.
The key is consistency. A hallmark study on habit creation found that habits developed in a range of 18 to 254 days, with participants reporting an average time for habit formation.
Choose Positive Influences
The people we spend time with significantly impact our behavior and mindset. A study from the New England Journal of Medicine found that social networks have a strong influence on an individual’s habits and choices.
Seek out relationships with individuals who embody the traits you admire. Join community groups or volunteer organizations that align with your values. These connections not only provide positive role models but also offer support and encouragement as you work on developing your character.
Celebrate Small Victories
Developing good character takes time and effort. Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement will motivate you to continue your journey of self-improvement.
Try to recognize one small victory each day. It could be as simple as resisting the urge to gossip or choosing to help someone in need. These small wins add up over time and contribute to significant character growth.
Final Thoughts
Being a good person doesn’t happen all at once. It’s built in the little things, the choice to listen when it’s easier to talk, to forgive when it’s easier to hold on, to show up when no one’s watching.
At Gladly Network, we believe those choices matter. Not just because they feel good, but because they spark something bigger. A culture where kindness spreads, and everyone feels seen.
That’s what #getgladly is all about: celebrating the real people who make life better in quiet, powerful ways. Whether you’re recognizing someone else or starting fresh yourself, every small act adds up.
So here’s to the grocery carriers, the honest mistake-own-uppers, the smile-at-a-stranger types. You’re making the world brighter, one good choice at a time.
