Ava Sinclair
In life, it’s not always about how smart you are or how successful you become. Sometimes, it’s about just being a decent human being.
Funnily enough, research has shown that there are certain traits that decent people tend to have in common.
And guess what? I’m going to share with you eight of these signs, backed up by psychology, that show you’re really and truly a decent person.
So, if you’ve ever wondered what makes a person stand out in terms of decency, then read on. This article is definitely for you.
1) Empathy is your second nature
Being a decent person often boils down to how we treat others. And one of the most powerful ways we can connect with people is through empathy.
Psychology tells us that empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and really feeling what they are going through.
In fact, research has shown that people who are high in empathy are more likely to help others, even when it’s not necessarily convenient for them. They just can’t help but feel for others, and that prompts them to act.
So if you find yourself naturally feeling for others, that’s a good sign. You’re likely a truly decent person according to psychology.
But remember, empathy isn’t just about feeling. It’s about acting on those feelings in a way that helps others. Being a decent person means not just understanding other people’s struggles, but doing what you can to make their lives a little bit easier.
2) You’re quick to admit when you’re wrong
Let’s face it, nobody’s perfect. We all make mistakes. But what separates a truly decent person from the rest is the ability to acknowledge when they’ve messed up.
I remember a time when I was in a heated discussion with a friend. Emotions were running high and, in the heat of the moment, I said something hurtful. But as soon as the words left my mouth, I realized my mistake.
Instead of trying to justify it or brush it off, I immediately apologized and admitted that I was wrong. And you know what? That apology not only diffused the situation, but strengthened our friendship.
According to psychologists, this ability to admit when we’re wrong shows humility and respect for others. It’s a sign of emotional maturity and a clear indication that you’re a decent person.
So next time you make a mistake, don’t shy away from it. Embrace it, learn from it, and most importantly, admit it. That’s what truly decent people do.
3) You don’t hold grudges
Holding onto resentment and grudges can be like drinking poison and expecting the other person to fall ill. It’s harmful to your mental health and does nothing to resolve the situation.
Did you know that a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that people who forgive others tend to have not just better mental health, but also improved physical health?
Decent people understand this. They don’t let past wrongs consume them or define their relationships. They know that everyone makes mistakes and they’re quick to forgive and move on.
Remember, forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting or allowing harmful behavior to continue. It means letting go of resentment for your own peace of mind and well-being. It’s a clear sign you’re a truly decent person.
4) You’re consistently reliable
Being a truly decent person isn’t about grand gestures or momentary acts of kindness. It’s about consistency in character and actions.
One of the key indicators of this consistency is reliability. If you say you’re going to do something, you do it. If you make a commitment, you follow through with it.
People know they can count on you. Whether it’s a friend in need, a work deadline, or a personal goal, you deliver on your promises.
Reliability builds trust and shows respect for others’ time and expectations. It’s often overlooked but is a crucial attribute of decent individuals.
So if you’re the kind of person who sticks to their word and can always be counted on, chances are, you’re more than just decent – you’re exceptional.
5) You genuinely rejoice in other people’s success
In a world where envy and competition often take center stage, being genuinely happy for someone else’s achievements can be a rare quality.
But it’s this very quality that speaks volumes about your decency. When a friend lands their dream job or a family member reaches a long-awaited goal, your heart fills with joy as if it were your own victory.
This isn’t about putting on a facade or saying the right things. It’s about that heartfelt happiness you feel deep inside when you see others succeed.
Because at the end of the day, a truly decent person knows that someone else’s success doesn’t diminish their own. Instead, it’s a cause for celebration, a moment of shared joy.
So if you find yourself cheering on others in their moments of triumph, rest assured. You’re not just decent, you’re remarkable.
6) You’re not afraid to show kindness
There’s a saying that goes, “Kindness is a language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” It’s a universal gesture that can bridge gaps and mend hearts.
I remember a time when I was going through a particularly rough patch. Everything seemed to be going wrong, and I felt like I was carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders.
Then, out of nowhere, a stranger at the grocery store noticed my distress and offered me a smile. It may seem insignificant, but in that moment, it meant everything.
Being kind doesn’t always mean grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a smile, a kind word or a listening ear. But these small acts of kindness can make a world of difference to someone else.
If you’re someone who’s not afraid to show kindness, even when no one is looking or when there’s nothing to gain, you’re beyond decent. You’re extraordinary.
7) You respect boundaries
Respecting others’ boundaries is an essential aspect of being a decent person. It shows that you value other people’s comfort, privacy, and individuality as much as your own.
Whether it’s understanding when a friend needs some space, not pushing someone to share more than they’re comfortable with, or respecting someone’s decision even if you disagree, acknowledging and respecting boundaries plays a significant role.
This respect extends to all areas of life, from personal relationships to professional environments. It’s about ensuring that everyone feels safe and respected in their interactions with you.
If you’re someone who respects boundaries and understands their importance, there’s no doubt about it – you are a truly decent person.
8) You strive to be better
The most significant sign of a truly decent person, according to psychology, is the constant desire to improve.
You understand that nobody is perfect and that there’s always room for growth. You’re willing to admit your flaws and work on them, not because you’re inadequate, but because you believe in the potential for change and growth.
This mindset isn’t about being overly critical of oneself or striving for unreachable perfection. It’s about recognizing that we are all works in progress.
So if you’re always looking for ways to be a better person, to learn and grow, then congratulations. You’re not only decent, you’re extraordinary. And the world needs more people like you.
Final thought: It’s all about the journey
In the end, being a decent person is less about hitting certain milestones and more about the journey you take to get there.
It’s about striving to be better, showing empathy, forgiving others, and rejoicing in their success. And while these qualities are certainly admirable, it’s important to remember that they are not a destination, but rather a path we walk every day.
A quote from Abraham Lincoln comes to mind: “I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live up to what light I have.”
Being a truly decent person is about living up to the light you have inside you. It’s a continuous process of learning, growing, and improving.
As you journey through life, remember that your actions speak louder than words. Strive for decency in all that you do and know that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a world of difference.
And always remember: the world needs more decent people. More people like you.
