Generosity can be pathological: Psychologist's insights

05.11.2023 08:50
Updated: 13.05.2024 21:22

Being generous is great - you can help your closest people a lot, so they can love you even more.

Meanwhile, excessive generosity can be bad sometimes, so everything should be moderate.

Here are some examples of why being too generous can be bad.

Financial Strain

If you give away all your money and resources, you might struggle to meet your own needs. 

For example, if you keep lending money to others and can't pay your bills, that's not good for you.

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Photo:Pixabay

Neglecting Yourself

Sometimes, people are so focused on helping others that they forget to take care of themselves. 

It's like giving away all your snacks and not having enough to eat. You need to look after your well-being too.

Time Management

If you spend all your time helping others and don't have time for your own responsibilities, it can create problems. 

Balancing your commitments is crucial.

Boundary Issues

Being too generous might mean you don't set boundaries. You can say "yes" to everything, even when it's not good for you. 

Learning when to say "no" is important for your own well-being.

Emotional Toll

Constantly trying to help others without taking care of yourself can lead to emotional exhaustion and stress.

So, while generosity is wonderful, it's essential to find a balance. 

You can help others and be kind, but you should also ensure you're not hurting yourself in the process. 

It's like the safety instructions on an airplane: "Put your oxygen mask on first before helping others." 

Taking care of yourself allows you to continue being generous in a healthy and sustainable way.
 

Kate Yakimchuk Author: Kate Yakimchuk Editor internet resource


Content
  1. Financial Strain
  2. Neglecting Yourself
  3. Time Management
  4. Boundary Issues
  5. Emotional Toll