Is it possible to put the needs of others before our own? Although it seems complicated, being disinterested begins with small gestures that, without chasing something in return, provide spontaneous satisfaction and make you more friendly.
One of the definitions that the Royal Spanish Academy requires of disinterest is the following: “detachment from all personal gain, close or remote. ” Starting from there, it is worth asking yourself how many times you act without thinking only about what you want, what suits you or what makes you feel good.
Why is it important to develop this thinking?
Being disinterested allows you to better understand the world from someone else’s shoes since you visualize problems, attitudes and reactions from another perspective. It is not easy to develop the tendency to help without thinking about yourself first, but it is welcome.
According to the book by Allan Luks and Peggy Payne, “The Healing Power of Doing Good: The Health and Spiritual Benefits of Helping Others,” disinterest translates into less stress and greater emotional balance.
In addition, satisfaction is not momentary but occurs every time you remember the act of solidarity. Increasing self-esteem, confidence and socializing at the same time that you give something back to your environment adds to your favor.
Tips for being selfless
Whenever it is in your hands, take a few minutes to reflect on how to support without feeding the ego. Do you think it is difficult? By applying the following tips you could simplify it.
1. Be empathetic
Being disinterested goes beyond your own thoughts, to focus only on your emotions and what you want. Put away self-absorption, give room to listen and understand others, to know what saddens them and to know what their joys are. So you could add a little light to their lives.
2. Hear more and speak less
One way to show interest in someone is by listening to them, especially if they want to share an achievement or vent their problems.
Ask him how his day was, give him the opportunity to express himself and relieve burdens. You will see that in the course of the talk he will also want to hear from you.
3. Don’t criticize
Instead of highlighting the bad, it edifies. There are ways of saying things and, if the opinion is not constructive, it is better to save it. Emphasize what is good for him and encourage him.
4. Love yourself
It is impossible to love others if we do not love each other. Real selflessness begins when we give ourselves love and from there, we love others. One way to love ourselves is to be grateful for who we are.
5. It is not always good to stand out
It is not bad to be generous; the unpleasant thing is to be exalted or to claim rewards for kindness. Whenever you do some altruistic work or help someone in need, let the facts speak for themselves. That makes them more special.
6. Give what you want for yourself
Start with your family offering a bit of your dessert, for example. Small exercises pave the way for bigger gestures. It is not mandatory to please another, but once you practice it you understand how good it feels.
7. Cultivate patience
Those who are disinterested tend to practice patience, a desirable quality to avoid frustrations or anger. If you are in a row do not despair to advance; your turn will come.
It is useless to bother with those in front; remember that it could be you. Make sure the time passes by starting a conversation; it is more entertaining for everyone.
8. Say less “no”
It is more filling to say a “yes” . In a situation that does not involve risks or dangers and will bring happiness and joy, you have to be positive. Usually we have something to give or how to help and if it is of great significance to those who need it, why not do it?
9. Let it flow
Being in control of what happens is not so important. You gain more when you let the flow and are surprised by what the path to the goal holds. Along the way you will see how rewarding it is to help.
10. Reflect on your behavior
Set aside time to reflect on your habits, thoughts, and actions. Review the way you treat yourself and other people. Analyze if you could give or love more.
But do not do it as punishment, but to make it better the next day. The loving kindness meditation is recommended by some psychologists to work with the emotional.
11. Pursue a model of selflessness
Imitate the example of a figure that you admire and perceive as disinterested. See the activities it performs for third parties and the effects. It would be a good example to follow.
12. Forgive me from my heart
If they ask for your forgiveness, don’t hold a grudge. Visualizing what happened from another perspective helps to be compassionate. It is not easy to excuse those who hurt us, but it is a great step towards disinterest and living together in peace.
The value of being selfless
Being disinterested is treating others as you would like them to treat you, without hurting for your own benefit. Its value is evidenced in personal growth and detachment for the welfare of others.
Don’t let a specific time come for action. Daily acts generously. On the train, offer a seat to an elderly or pregnant woman, donate the clothes that you no longer use, keep the elevator door open for someone to go up, when entering a place say hello and wish a good day.
These everyday gestures feed your mind, spirit, and emotions, because you do them from the heart without aiming for recognition.
The value of being selfless
Being disinterested is treating others as you would like them to treat you, without hurting for your own benefit. Its value is evidenced in personal growth and detachment for the welfare of others.
Don’t let a specific time come for action. Daily acts generously. On the train, offer a seat to an elderly or pregnant woman, donate the clothes that you no longer use, keep the elevator door open for someone to go up, when entering a place say hello and wish a good day.
These everyday gestures feed your mind, spirit, and emotions, because you do them from the heart without aiming for recognition.