Helping others: it’s a fundamental part of humanity. In times of tragedy, the stories of those who help others are inspiring, such as helping the nation recover from national disasters and terrorist attacks. Some men and women even devote their lives to helping others, from the police force that protects our cities, to the fire departments who run into burning buildings, to the service men and women who risk their lives for the common good.

But helping others isn’t limited to these grand gestures during times of tribulation. Helping others can be done each and every day. And contrary to what you may have heard, helping others doesn’t always have to be a selfless act. It’s important to understand that helping others can actually help yourself. No matter what the motivation, getting out and helping others is the key. So in that spirit of motivation, here are 3 reasons why helping others actually helps yourself:

1. When you help someone, they will be more likely to help you.

This is the basic, unspoken agreement that fuels nearly every move. I’ll spend my entire day lugging boxes, but you owe me. It’s much easier to find help when someone knows you’d do the same for them. They may not always live up to their end of the bargain, and you may not either. But if you help enough people and do many good deeds, it will be given back when needed.

2. You’ll feel great.

Helping others is a great way to feel better about yourself. Seeing a smile or even tears of joy makes it all worth it. It’s as simple as that.

3. Unintentional impressions.

Although you are helping others, you do not need to broadcast it. People notice when you’re doing good. It may not be the reason you help out, but someone is always watching. Even the simplest gesture can make an awesome impression.

So get up and help someone today. Pay it forward.

It just might make a difference.