In the post How surroundings affect mood we looked at the principle of general mood and personal mood. Continuing on that theme, I would like to look at how selfishness can affect the general mood and consequently your personal mood.
If you have entirely selfish intentions in life then you are less likely to stop and think how other people feel. Imagine a ruthless business person who's primary goal is to be rich. This is a very selfish outlook.
This person centres their whole life around becoming rich. In doing so, this person probably causes financial hardship to others either directly or indirectly. The money they make has to come from somewhere, someone else has to lose out somewhere along the line.
In focusing so tightly on becoming rich, this person may become short sighted. They may not realise others are suffering due to their actions. They may not stop to think about other people and how they feel. If this becomes the case, this person could unintentionally upset a lot of people.
Just think what an effect this has on the general mood of this person's surroundings. The general mood would certainly fall, and this in turn will affect this person's own mood. This doesn't sound like a recipe for happiness, even though the person may be convinced that when they have enough money they will surely be happy.
In contrast, let us look at a completely selfless person. A person who devotes their time and efforts to helping others rather than helping themselves. This person spreads kindness wherever they go. What effect will this have on the general mood?
Of course, it will have a positive effect. The general mood will undoubtedly increase. This person will be surrounded by people who appreciate and benefit from their kindness. Many will want to return the favour and offer something in return for the help.
Imagine being surrounded by happy, grateful people who appreciate your efforts. The general mood would soar, and in turn so would your own mood.
Consider the effects of your day to day actions on the general mood. I expect they are somewhere between the two extremes I've illustrated. By simply being aware of the effect you have on the general mood you can adjust any negative influences and try to have a more positive effect.
Try to be more giving and less selfish, you will see the rewards as the general mood of your surroundings increases and this change is reflected in your personal mood.
Remember to keep smiling :)
This entry was posted 2 years ago
It has been tagged: surroundings, mood, principle, money, happiness, kindness, positive, change.