The Surprising Science of Doing, Seeing & Feeling Good. ✨ DMGB Newsletter #9

Happy Holiday Week!🎄✨

Ever wondered why doing good, seeing good, or even just scrolling  heartwarming good in our social feed feels so…well…good?

The answer is simple.

Humans are biologically, emotionally, and socially wired for good.

So we’re diving into the simple but powerful science behind our brain’s reward system, and understanding how it can inspire us to do (more) good (better) in life and work.

A Good Quote

"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." — Maya Angelou

A Good Note

The Surprising Science of Why Good Feels Good

Doing good feels good for a reason.

It’s science.

Our brains actually reward us for doing good and craves more of it the more we do.

The brain releases “happy chemicals” like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins every time we help others, witness acts of kindness, or even scroll a heartwarming story on social media.

Here’s a quick breakdown of these feel-good neurochemicals:

• Dopamine: The “reward chemical” that motivates us to repeat acts of kindness. Anticipating or completing a good deed gives us a joyful boost.
• Serotonin: The mood stabilizer. Helping others or seeing compassion in action fosters contentment and calm.
• Oxytocin: The “bonding hormone.” It deepens trust and empathy, encouraging cooperation and connection.
• Endorphins: Nature’s painkiller. Acts of kindness and joy release endorphins, reducing stress and creating euphoria.

This built-in reward system isn’t random; it’s evolutionary.

Cooperation and kindness helped our ancestors survive - and it continues to strengthen social bonds today.

So, every time you lend a hand, pay someone a compliment, or even just smile at a stranger, your brain is reinforcing the behavior.

The result?

Doing good feels good.

Doing more good feels better.

And doing more good better feels amazing. So here’s to more good, more often!

A Good Example

‘Tis the Season for Bell Ringin’!

You know the feeling…

Bell ringing, you reach for some loose change, a couple dollars, or your rare Krugerrand and drop it in the famous red kettle.  

Smiles abound, rush of happy chemicals make you feel a little bit amazing.  

It’s a perfect moment of good where all is right in the world (and in your brain chemistry)!

Dropping some coins in the kettle is more than just a feel good moment, it’s how YOU are a powerful part of doing good in the world.

Here’s more about how far those donations actually go…

Since it was founded in 1865 the Salvation Army:

• Operates in over 130 countries.
• Raises approximately $4 billion annually worldwide through donations, thrift stores, and grants.
• Serves 58 million meals annually to the hungry  in the U.S. alone.
• Provides shelter in 1,200+ facilities globally for homeless individuals and families.
• Assists 150,000+ people annually with addiction recovery and skill-building programs.
• Delivers aid during 60+ major disasters annually, including natural disasters and global crises.
• Operates 7,500+ thrift stores, funding services while promoting recycling and reuse.
• Raises over $100 million annually during the holiday season in the U.S. through its iconic Red Kettle Campaign to fund programs.
• Is powered by 3.5 million volunteers annually.

The Salvation Army's multifaceted approach combines direct aid with community-based solutions, aligning with the values of addressing immediate needs while building long-term resilience

A noteworthy example of doing (more) good (better).

A Good Recommendation

Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t By: Simon Sinek

This book incorporates an accessible overview of the science behind the “happy chemicals” that drive us to work together, support one another, and achieve greatness.

Learn more about how these neurochemicals influence leadership, teamwork, and the ripple effect of doing good.

It’s an inspiring guide for anyone who wants to lead with empathy and purpose.

Give it a read!

A Good Question

What’s the last good deed you did (or saw) that made you feel amazing? What ripple effect might it have created? We’d love to hear your story! And we might feature you in a future edition.

Answer

Share the Good!

Share this with a friend who could use a dose of inspiration (and some happy chemicals)!

Let’s keep spreading the science - and joy - of doing good.

Happy holidays to you and yours!