Reverse Inspiration
By: David Freund, Chief Leadership Officer

Years ago, when our children were still very young, several families from our church would take one Tuesday evening per month and go sing for an elderly widow in our church. Honestly, the last thing I really wanted to do on a Tuesday evening after a long hard day was to rush out of the house after dinner to go sing. I was tired, dinner was rushed, and the kids always seemed to be running in different directions. In all of this chaos and fatigue I really, REALLY didn’t want to go. However, out of a sense of obligation and dedication to my faith community, and in an effort to be a good example to my kids, we loaded up the car and went. What happened next was always amazing.  About 15 minutes into our stay, my mood would shift. I would actually start enjoying myself, and on the way home the hymns we sang were still running through my mind, making the ride home so pleasant.

What happened while I was there? What was it about visiting an old widow that made my evening brighter and more energized? Quite simply, it was Reverse Inspiration. When we do for others, we are doing for ourselves. When we add value to others lives we actually expand our own life and feel great doing it. The process of giving causes your brain to release two chemicals Serotonin and Dopamine. Both of these chemicals cause us to be happier and feel more appreciated. Some have called this the “helpers high.” In addition to the good feelings, it improves heart rate, improves circulation, and reduces hypertension. We actually become less stressed and nicer. Now that alone is a good enough reason to be kind to others.

Are you ready to begin feeling better about yourself? Are you ready to improve your mental and physical health? Join Marisa and me on the next episode of The Next Page podcast as we take a deeper dive into Reverse Inspiration. We will be sharing things you can start doing today.

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