The Science Behind Giving Back to the Community

This month, Anthony Tuggle writes about the importance of giving back to the community.

Many philosophies and faiths, and even common sense, includes a strong belief in giving back. Not only does it help others, but it’s proven to be one of the most therapeutic things we can do for ourselves. Mahatma Gandhi is quoted as saying, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

A new study from Northwestern found that people who have a purpose in life have an unknowing benefit: They sleep better at night. Research has proved that having a greater purpose, outside of yourself, is not just good for your physical health but also your mental health – and longevity. Another study, in The Lancet, found that having a purpose in life directly corresponded to living longer. You may ask yourself, why would having a purpose in life lead to these health benefits? Well for starters, it takes the focus off ourselves, which can lead to less stress, anxiety and depression. Shifting your focus from yourself to something else may help quiet worry and stress about your own life – very similar to how mediation is known to quiet activity in the “me-centers” of the brain. This is connected to better brain function, improved immune function and less depression.

So finding a life purpose might be a smart idea – but, if you need some time to figure that out, you can do something good for someone in need today. If you’re looking for a way to start, join AT&T’s Tuggle Nation, a workforce of 6,000+ internal AT&T call center employees, that is giving back to the homeless this holiday season. The holidays are all about celebrating with friends and family, but it's also a time where giving back can mean the most to those in need.

Partnering with the Salvation Army, the team discovered that socks are the number one needed clothing item for the homeless. This inspired them to invite centers across the country to donate socks and hang them on their own giving trees.  The initiative was launched in early December and it has definitely taken off!

To date, they have collected 6,405 pairs of socks! At AT&T, we are passionate about community engagement. Providing comfort to the homeless is a great way to close out 2018 and remember why the holidays can mean something different to all of us.