I often find myself reflecting, “Am I a good person?”
Now, I’m sure you’ve had similar thoughts. We all have. It’s natural to question our significance in this vast universe and wonder if we’re making a positive impact.
But perhaps, just perhaps, you’re a lot better than you give yourself credit for. You see, it’s common for us to focus on our flaws and overlook the good that we do.
But, hell, even Marcus Aurelius encouraged self-compassion. He wrote:
“Don’t be disgusted, don’t give up, don’t be impatient if you do not carry out entirely conduct based in every detail upon right principles; but after a fall return again,”(The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Today, I hope to inspire some self-compassion. I’ll shed light on five signs that show you’re probably better than you think
Let’s dive in, shall we?
1. You’re there to lend a helping hand
Ever found yourself assisting an elderly neighbor with groceries? Or perhaps you’ve spent an afternoon volunteering at a local food bank?
If you’re the kind of person who’s always ready to lend a helping hand, consider this a significant sign of your goodness.
You see, altruism is a trait that’s often overlooked. But it’s one of the most telling indicators of a genuinely good person. After all, it takes a kind soul to put others before oneself.
2. You feel genuine happiness for others’ success
I remember when my best friend landed his dream job. He’d been tirelessly working towards it for years, and to see him finally achieve it was a moment of pure joy.
What struck me later was that I was just as exhilarated as if it had been my own victory.
And that’s when it hit me – feeling genuine happiness for others’ success is a sign of a good person.
Nowadays, envy is all too common. Being able to step aside and cheer for someone else’s achievement is not just rare, it’s commendable.
3. You’re not afraid to admit when you’re wrong
It was a typical Tuesday morning. I was in a team meeting, confidently presenting my project ideas. Halfway through, a colleague raised her hand and pointed out an error in my calculations.
I froze.
I could feel my cheeks flushing, my heart pounding. The room was silent, all eyes on me. It would’ve been easy to get defensive, to argue. But instead, I took a deep breath and said, “You’re right. I made a mistake.”
Admitting you’re wrong isn’t easy. It’s uncomfortable and humbling. But it also shows courage and integrity.
So if you can swallow your pride and own up to your mistakes, take it as a sign of your growth as an individual. It’s one of those subtle signs that you’re a better person than you realize.
4. You strive to improve
This is a huge one.
We all have our shortcomings, aspects of ourselves we wish to improve. The key difference lies in how we approach these flaws.
Do you beat yourself up over them? Or do you see them as opportunities for growth and make a conscious effort to better yourself?
If you resonate with the latter, then you’re on the right track.
Striving to improve oneself is a mark of a person who is not only self-aware but also driven and determined. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about acknowledging your imperfections and working towards becoming a better version of yourself.
5. You’re authentic
In a world where we’re constantly encouraged to conform, being true to yourself is an act of bravery.
If you’re someone who refuses to change your values or personality to fit into societal norms, you’re displaying authenticity. This is arguably one of the most admirable traits a person can possess.
Authentic people are confident in their beliefs and aren’t afraid to stand by them, even in the face of criticism. They’re genuine, straightforward, and, above all, real.
So, if you’re true to yourself and your values, take it as the most significant sign that you’re a better person than you realize. Being authentic isn’t just about being a good person – it’s about being the best version of yourself.
The bottom line
Being a good person doesn’t mean being perfect. It’s about progress, not perfection. It’s about embracing your flaws and still striving to make a positive impact.
So don’t brush off these signs. Acknowledge them. And most importantly, give yourself some credit. It takes courage to look inward, to question, and to grow.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
