Why giving to charities makes sense
Of all the things one can do in their lives, giving to charity is one of the most noble. Yet, in this day and age, many abstain from doing so, as uncertain times have caused many to hold on as much money as humanly possible.
Even when these individuals end up in a more financially stable position, they retain their old habits, as the old fear of ending up destitute causes them to retain every dollar they make.
Not every well-off person is like this; Larry Polhill could have held onto all the money he has made over the years and become richer, but he made the conscious decision to earmark some of it for those who were less fortunate.
As a result, it could be argued that he has become wealthier as a result, as he is filled with the feeling of accomplishment that can only be had when you set aside your own wants and needs and do something for someone else without expecting anything in return.
Need a more detailed case on why you should give a portion of your wages to charity? This article will spell out all the benefits of charitable giving.
1) It feels good
Most people don’t realize this until they give a substantial amount of money for the first time. Once the dollar bills or the check leaves their hands, a strange feeling of bliss passes over them.
There are studies that confirm this, as it has been shown that people who gave away a portion of $100 that they received activated the pleasure centers of their brain.
Unlike the guilt we feel when we hold on to money that is desperately needed, charitable giving allows us to feel a happiness that helps give meaning to our lives.
2) The world needs your help
We might not need to tell you this, but just turning on the TV or surfing the net will reveal a world where many people are suffering from a varieties of ills and injustices.
It can be so tremendously overwhelming that it can be tempting to think that one person could never solve all of the world’s problems.
On the face of it, that might be true, but it is also true that the efforts of one person can save or transform multiple lives through their financial support.
Furthermore, your aid can inspire others around you to pitch in as well, creating a multiplier effect that, in time, can help solve the problems facing our world.
3) You’ll save on your taxes
In many developed nations, there are provisions in the tax code that allow taxpayers to claim a certain amount of charitable contributions for a credit that can reduce your amount payable.
While this is certainly one of the more self-serving benefits of charitable giving, it is a benefit nonetheless.
4) It sets a good example for your kids
You want your kids to grow up to become well-adjusted adults, don’t you? Of course you do! One of the ways you do this is by setting a good example through your actions, so when they see you making out a check for your favorite cause, explain what you are doing, and how it helps those worse off than them.
They will pick up on charitable giving as a practice they should be doing, and it will benefit their personal growth, as well as those who desperately need their help.