Kiran Athar
Amongst us are people, (or as I like to call them, angels on earth), who go out of their way to look out for others.
They’re kind and supportive, even on their bad days. But, what makes a person this way?
If you’re wondering whether you or someone you know falls into the “caring category”, look no further…
This article will clear up any doubts! Here are 15 character traits of people who look out for others:
1. They don’t judge
No matter how big or small an issue is, someone who looks out for others will avoid judgment – all they want is to help resolve an issue or improve a situation.
You see, when we judge people, we’re almost writing them off based on our own assumptions.
It’s like when you see a homeless person; many would assume they’re living rough because they messed up in life. But the truth is, hard times can fall onto any of us, no matter how much we appear to be succeeding.
We’re all just one bad incident away from having our lives turned upside down…
People who look out for others recognize this – rather than judge they extend a hand of help!
2. They’re empathetic
Another key character trait of people who look out for others is being empathetic. Being empathetic means putting yourself in the shoes of others.
Without empathy, it’s hard to get to know people on a deeper level and connect in a meaningful way…
If you’re someone who looks out for other people’s well-being, you’ve likely got the empathy gene and lots of it!
3. They’re practical
You might be wondering why practical made the list.
The truth is, if someone cares and looks out for others, they’ve gotta be practical. When an elderly neighbor needs a lift to the doctor, you’ve got to make arrangements.
When you notice a colleague struggling at work, you might have to change your plans to help them out.
The point is, someone with this characteristic is ready to get into action to help those who need it.
4. They’re usually good listeners
But to be practical, you need to understand the needs of the person you’re helping. People who look out for others tend to be active listeners.
This means they pay full attention, refrain from interrupting, and often let the other person know they’ve understood what they’re saying.
Here’s the thing – someone might be complaining about the headaches they keep getting.
But if you’re really looking out for them, you’ll be paying attention to the hints they drop that reveal the underlying issue; stress, tiredness, and burnout.
The headache is usually the least of the issues!
5. They’re kind-hearted
It goes without saying that another key character trait of people who look out for others is their kind-heartedness.
Turning someone away who’s in need just doesn’t come naturally!
They’re considerate towards others’ feelings, and will go out of their way to make people feel safe, secure, and comforted.
6. They tend to be more positive
Talking about being kind, people who care about others usually have a positive nature.
They look at the bright side of life. But that’s not to say they don’t see the negatives; they do.
These types of people choose to focus on the good stuff and minimize the bad. Their goal isn’t to pretend that everything will be okay, but to remind you that after every storm comes the sunshine.
7. They keep an open mind
Earlier, I mentioned that people who look out for others tend to avoid being judgemental. Well, this point is very much linked:
They keep an open mind toward anyone in need.
They understand that even if someone is in a bad position and it’s their own fault, they still deserve compassion and support.
8. They’re super patient
But to keep an open mind and still care about others requires copious amounts of patience…
Most of us have a limit on how much we can support others. It’s a sad truth but we’ve all got our own issues to deal with.
However, someone who always looks out for others will take the time to listen, support, and help out. In a way, their own needs may take a back seat.
9. They’re understanding
So, why would they put others before themselves?
Well, they’re understanding!
They get it – life can be tough. Sometimes we just need that one person who’s always there to offer a kind word or a hug.
Not to mention, the fact that these types of people are extremely empathetic means it’s only natural they’d have deep levels of understanding.
10. They’re forgiving
Here’s the thing; just because someone is caring and looks out for others, it doesn’t mean they never get stung in the process.
We’ve all been there, right? Trying to help someone who doesn’t want to be helped.
Or, helping someone only for them to later throw it back in your face.
That’s why caring people tend to have the trait of forgiveness. As I mentioned above, they’re incredibly understanding, and when you’re understanding, it’s much easier to be forgiving.
11. They’re attentive
It’s all about the details – people who look out for others are always on the lookout for the smallest clues that they need to swoop in and lend a hand.
They don’t wait to be told directly. They almost have an intuitive capability of sussing out a person in need.
To sum up; they’re attentive.
They can adapt quickly, stay focussed, and make real changes. After all, what’s the point in looking out for people if you can only get half the job done?
That leads me to my next point:
12. They’re dependable
Think about it this way:
If someone was flakey and never really kept their word, you probably wouldn’t consider them to be someone who looks out for others.
Those who genuinely care make the effort to be dependable. They know their support is needed so they rise to the occasion…every time!
13. They’re trustworthy
Quite similarly to being dependable, another character trait of people who look out for others is being trustworthy.
No matter what someone is going through, they’ll keep their business under wraps. They don’t gossip or spread lies.
Someone who looks out for others tries to minimize the damage and hurt, not increase it!
14. They’re respectful
When you look out for others, you have to be respectful of their needs. That’s why another character trait of caring people is treating others with respect and dignity.
It’s all about knowing how to help someone without crossing any of their boundaries or insulting them in the process.
By being tactful, understanding, and kind, they offer the best possible help.
15. They’re compassionate
And finally, they’re compassionate.
Compassion is a mix between empathy and concern. By having this trait and going out of their way to help others, these types of people make the world a better place.
They are the type of people you see and think, “Now my faith in humanity is restored.”
So, do you fall into the category of someone who looks out for others?
If you don’t, make a note of some of these points and actively work on them. We could all do with more care, love, and compassion in the world!
