There’s a subtle difference between just being a good person and having a truly good heart.

The key is in the depth of your kindness. Being a good person is often about how you act on the surface, while having a genuinely good heart is about who you are at your core—how you treat others, even when no one is looking.

Psychology offers some interesting insights into this, and there are certain signs that might show if your kindness is truly heartfelt.

Here are eight signs that can help you see if your goodness really comes from deep within.

1) Empathy is your second nature

Psychology often points to empathy as a significant marker of a genuinely good heart.

If you find yourself naturally feeling the emotions of those around you and often go out of your way to alleviate their discomfort, this could be a sign of your heart’s goodness.

Good-hearted people don’t just acknowledge the feelings of others; they deeply feel them, too. And they allow this understanding to guide their actions.

So if you’re someone who often feels the joys and sorrows of others as if they were your own, chances are, you’ve got a genuinely good heart.

True empathy is selfless. It’s not about scoring points or appearing kind. It’s about truly caring for others.

2) You give without expecting anything in return

The act of giving selflessly is another sign that you might have a genuinely good heart. It’s not about the value of what you give; it’s the thought and love behind it.

Let me share a personal example. I remember when I was in college, money was tight. One day, I saw a homeless man on my way to class.

He was shivering, and it was clear that he was in need of warmth more than anything else.

I had just bought a new jacket. It was the first big purchase I had made in months, and I was really excited about it. But seeing this man, I felt a strong urge to give him my new jacket.

So, I did. I gave him my brand new jacket without thinking twice.

At that moment, it wasn’t about the cost of the jacket or the fact that I would have to go without one.

It was about giving warmth to someone who needed it more than I did. That’s what having a good heart is all about – giving without expecting anything in return.

So, if you often find yourself giving selflessly, whether it’s your time, energy, or resources, you likely have a genuinely good heart.

3) You practice forgiveness

Forgiveness is a pivotal characteristic of a genuinely good heart. Holding grudges is easy, but letting go of resentment and forgiving someone takes real strength and kindness.

Interestingly, a study published in the American Psychological Association found that practicing forgiveness leads to lower levels of stress and improved mental health.

It seems that not only does forgiveness signify a good heart, it also has substantial benefits for our well-being.

If you find it in your heart to forgive people for their mistakes and move on, without holding onto any bitterness or ill-will, you’re showing a sign of genuine goodness. 

So next time someone wrongs you, remember that forgiveness isn’t just about them—it’s also about keeping your heart pure and your mind at peace.

4) You’re naturally patient

Patience is a virtue, as the saying goes.

This couldn’t be more true when it comes to identifying signs of a genuinely good heart. Patience shows a willingness to wait, to understand, and to accept things as they are without losing composure.

Not everyone can keep their cool when things don’t go as planned or when others take a little longer than expected. If you’re someone who can, it speaks volumes about your character.

Patience also means giving people the time they need to grow and change, without rushing them or making them feel inadequate. 

5) You find joy in others’ happiness

One of the most beautiful traits of a genuinely good heart is the ability to find joy in the happiness of others.

It’s not about envy or comparison, but about being truly happy for someone else’s success or joy. 

This trait, often referred to as ‘compersion’ in psychology, is a testament to your ability to love unconditionally and selflessly.

It shows that your happiness isn’t confined to your own achievements or experiences, but extends to those of the people around you.

If you often find yourself smiling at other people’s joys and victories as if they were your own, you’re not just a good-hearted person; you’re a beacon of love and positivity.

And that’s something truly special.

6) You’re always there to lend a helping hand

Being there to help others in their time of need is a sure sign of a genuinely good heart.

I remember a time when my friend was going through a tough phase. She had lost her job and was struggling to cope with the stress and uncertainty.

Despite having my own commitments and problems, I couldn’t stand by and watch her suffer.

I spent hours with her, helping her update her resume, prepare for interviews, and most importantly, regain her confidence.

And you know what? It didn’t feel like a chore or a burden. Instead, it felt like the right thing to do.

If you’re someone who steps up when others are in need, regardless of your own circumstances, rest assured that your heart is in the right place.

Your willingness to help is a testament to your kindness and compassion, symbols of a genuinely good heart.

7) You practice gratitude

When you have a good heart, you naturally appreciate the good in your life and express gratitude for it.

Gratitude isn’t just about saying ‘thank you’. It’s an attitude, a way of life that acknowledges the positive aspects of our existence.

You’d often find yourself feeling thankful for the smallest of things – a delicious meal, a warm bed, a kind word from a stranger.

It’s not about how big or small the gesture is but about recognizing and appreciating the goodness around you.

Practicing gratitude also means being thankful for the people in your life. You value their love, support, and even their flaws because they contribute to your life in unique ways.

8) You love unconditionally

At the heart of all goodness lies one essential trait – the ability to love unconditionally.

Unconditional love is about accepting and loving others for who they are, without any expectations or conditions.

It’s about seeing beyond their flaws and mistakes, and loving them purely for being themselves.

Unconditional love isn’t limited to romantic relationships. It extends to family, friends, and even strangers. 

Because when it comes down to it, true goodness is all about love. It’s about loving without limits and without expectations. And that’s the most beautiful trait anyone can possess.

Reflection: Goodness is a journey

As you evaluate these signs within yourself, know that it’s okay to falter. It’s okay to have moments of impatience or misunderstanding.

What truly matters is your willingness to acknowledge these moments and strive for better.

You don’t have to be perfect to have a good heart. You just need to be genuinely you – striving for goodness in your own unique way.