A study of 2,000 adults found they typically carry out 223 selfless acts a year, with opening doors for others, taking in packages for neighbours, and giving directions the most common
A study involving 2,000 people revealed that the average adult performs 223 altruistic deeds annually. Common acts of kindness include holding doors open, accepting deliveries for those next door, and providing help with directions.
Other benevolent gestures are contributing to charities, offering one's seat on public transport, and brewing a cuppa for workers. Family chores support, lending a hand with bulky shopping bags, and litter collection also made the list of top good deeds.
The desire to spread cheer is often driven by wishes to make others feel 'good' (40%) as well as personal satisfaction (34%).
Launched to coincide with Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's high-quality small-batch tequila Teremana's introduction to the UK market, this research found 82% of participants gain a 'positive' sensation from engaging in acts of kindness.
Tying into the promotion of this spirit, which means 'Spirit of the Earth,' an inspiring mural has been revealed in Shoreditch. Dubbed the 'Mana Mural,' the large artwork invites passers-by, including the jovial pair known as All On The Board, to inscribe messages of joy and thanks directly onto it.
Comments from psychotherapist Emma Reed-Turrell include: "Positive social interactions are good for our mental health. When we share a positive experience with others, our brains release oxytocin which can promote empathy, trust and relationship-building. And the more we engage in these feel-good behaviours, the more oxytocin we get. It's a virtuous circle."
A recent study has shown that 58% of people believe acts of kindness don't need to be grand gestures, as even the smallest ones can make a significant impact.
The research also highlighted that 46% think there's currently "too much" negativity in the UK, while 54% feel 'not enough' good deeds are being done.
In light of this, Dwayne Johnson commented ahead of the Mana Mural reveal, which is open for visits until Thursday July 4: "The UK is a special place for me. To now be able to 'share the Mana' with the UK is a privilege."
Conducted via OnePoll, the study found that 61% of participants have experienced someone going 'above and beyond' for them. This led to 65% feeling grateful, 60% appreciative, and 42% loved.
Jonathan Dennys, spokesperson for Mast-Jagermeister UK, remarked: "Our research underscores the profound impact of simple acts of kindness. And the Mana Mural is our way of celebrating and amplifying these moments. We invite everyone to 'Share the Mana' by contributing messages of positivity and gratitude to the mural."
The top 20 most common acts of kindness:
- Holding open a door for others
- Taking in a delivery for a neighbour
- Giving someone directions
- Donating to charity
- Putting the kettle on for a family member
- Giving up a seat for someone else on public transport
- Making tradespeople a cup of tea when they do work on your home
- Letting other drivers out at a junction
- Buying loved ones food or drink while out with them
- Giving someone a lift
- Retrieving items off high shelves in a supermarket when they’re struggling
- Making a colleague a cup of tea
- Helping a relative with household chores
- Helping an older person use technology
- Loaning someone money
- Helping carry heavy shopping
- Popping to the shops for someone who is unwell
- Giving hand-me-down items to friends
- Helping someone move house
- Picking up litter from public spaces