In Thrive, giving has various forms, from acts of kindness, compassion, and interpersonal support to philanthropy. Arianna Huffington presents giving as a fundamental element of a fulfilling and balanced life because it offers many benefits for personal well-being and societal harmony.

A “go-giver” is an individual who prioritizes giving, contributing, and helping others as a central part of their life and values. Huffington contrasts “go-givers” with “go-getters,” who are more driven by personal ambition, success, and the pursuit of wealth and achievement; while “go-getters” often seek personal gain and individual success, “go-givers” find fulfillment and meaning in giving to others, fostering connections, and making a difference in their communities and the world.

Huffington introduces James Gleick’s term “hurry sickness,” coined in his book Faster: The Acceleration of Just About Everything. The term describes a modern affliction characterized by an unrelenting, ever-present sense of urgency and the compulsion to rush through life’s activities. It reflects the societal pressure to be in a hurry, to accomplish more in less time, and to prioritize productivity and achievement over well-being and balance. Huffington argues that this preoccupation with being busy can have detrimental effects on one’s physical and mental health, leading to stress, burnout, and an overall diminished quality of life.