One thing that the Bible, the Quran, and the Torah all have in common is preaching to help others.

As a worldwide standard, taking care of others is highly valued and regarded. I have always loved taking care of people but giving never felt as magical as people said it did. I have been told since I was a toddler that it is better to give than receive. Why would that make sense? Giving to people costs money– money I could spend on food, movies, or new clothes.

I never needed new materials for myself; I only needed a change of heart.

My change of heart became evident last holiday season. It finally clicked why my mom went overboard in her Santa pursuit during Christmas. Because she cares. I finally cared so deeply and passionate about my friends, acquaintances, and family that I essentially needed to shower them with gifts. I was ecstatic that my bank account was quickly receding in numbers. I couldn’t wait until my loved ones unwrapped their gifts so I could watch smiles grow across their faces.

One way to boost the excitement of giving is to keep track of the recipient’s interests. I have been listening way more intently to friends as they discuss their passions and interests. Anytime something comes up, I secretly (and now not-so-secretly) take notes on my phone of their interests. As the holiday season approaches, my list of names grows longer on my little rose gold phone, and my heart grows a bit bigger.

Giving truly is better than receiving– not only in the emotions but in the facts. It has been found that through all income levels, people experience a greater sense of happiness when they spend more money on others than themselves. Giving also enlists a chain reaction of paying it forward. If you are into being taught a lesson, giving can do just that. Giving inspires responsibility to be taken. To give sometimes requires sacrifice in budget, commitments, or time-management. Giving even chemically alters your feelings. Happy hormones are released into your body, often initiating a sense of warmth and euphoria.

Giving, based on first-hand experience and cold hard facts, is most definitely better than receiving.