Most of us love giving to others, but many people have a hard time receiving and accepting gifts and appreciation themselves.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give.”

I absolutely agree with that, and I also think it’s important to think the other way around, from the perspective of other people;

To let others have the pleasure of giving to YOU, and allowing them to feel the happiness it is to give, just as it makes you happy to give.

Giving to others can be something simple as giving a smile to someone on the street, saying thank you when someone holds the door for us, giving someone a (sincere) compliment, or write someone a thank you note (or send a text) letting them know that you appreciate them.

It can also be about helping someone and doing something nice for them, or giving a monetary gift too, or some other token of appreciation.

Things like that brightens up both your day and theirs.

But also remember to receive in the same spirit;

Allow others to help you, compliment you, or show their appreciation and gratitude towards you.

Receive gifts and kind words with a grateful heart, knowing the joy the other person is feeling by being able to give to you, just as you feel joyful when you can give to them or others.

It’s a blessing and joy to give – So let others have that too by allowing yourself to be a joyful receiver! ❤

“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” – Voltaire