Jain Digest 2018 10

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

Page 37

JainDigest potential payoff: By maximizing the emotional benefits of giving, the strategy can make people more willing to behave generously in the future. Evidence for that claim comes from a recent study we co-authored with Lara Aknin. After reflecting on a time when they had spent money on themselves or others, students received an envelope filled with cash. This time, though, they were allowed to choose how to spend their windfall. Not only did people feel happier after reflecting on a time when they spent money on others, but the happier they felt after thinking about their past spending experience, the more inclined they were to spend the new cash-filled envelope on others rather than themselves. Giving and happiness reinforce each other, creating a positive feedback loop. Is it possible to let people taste the joy of making a positive impact for as little as a dollar? It's tough to imagine how such a small donation could make a difference--unless you join forces with others. In 2012, Daniel Hawkins formed the Dollar Collective. Members each contribute one dollar, and the group decides what random act of generosity to perform with the pool of money. As their first act, they surprised a young couple out for Valentine's Day and paid for their entire meal. And the couple who received the unexpected free meal? They decided to give the money they saved on dinner to a local charity (as well as buy some treats for their cat). Just one example, but it points to a larger scientific truth: When prosocial spending is done right--when it feels like a choice, when it connects us with others, and when it makes a clear impact-even small gifts can have a big effect on happiness, potentially spurring a domino effect of generosity. HAPPINESS DOESN'T RESULT FROM WHAT WE GET, BUT FROM WHAT WE GIVE. BEN CARSON WE MAKE A LIVING BY WHAT WE GET, BUT WE MAKE A WHAT WE GIVE. LIFEBY -WINSTON CHURCHILD SUCCESS.COM Selfless giving unto others represents one's true wealth. Jon M. Huntsman