Review: The Goodness Game: Make the World Better and Feel Awesome While Doing It

The Goodness Game: Make the World Better and Feel Awesome While Doing It is a practical guide that aims to revolutionize our approach to acts of kindness and altruism. Instead of focusing on traditional philanthropy or large-scale initiatives, Driscoll presents readers with a personal and accessible framework for making small, yet meaningful, changes in their daily lives.

Driscoll’s central idea, the “Goodness Game,” is a playful yet purposeful approach to cultivating a positive impact on the world while embracing the personal joy that comes from helping others. Driscoll believes that doing good shouldn’t be viewed as a sacrifice or obligation, but rather as a mutually beneficial process. His approach encourages readers to prioritize both their own happiness and the well-being of others, arguing that sustainable kindness must be enjoyable for those who practice it. This mindset allows readers to feel more connected to their good deeds, which Driscoll suggests will keep them motivated in the long term.

One of the strengths of the book is the concept that stems from Driscoll’s personal story. He shares his experience of a stranger helping him during a difficult time without expecting anything in return. This experience inspired him to think about how he could reciprocate the kindness and help others in turn. He realized that if he could help others, they might help others, and so on, it could create a society where people are constantly giving to help others—the “pay it forward” mentality.

Another strength of the book lies in its highly approachable tone. Driscoll writes in a conversational and friendly style that makes potentially daunting topics feel manageable. He breaks down each concept with real-life examples and actionable steps, ranging from complimenting strangers to volunteering in the community. This structured approach makes The Goodness Game particularly valuable for readers who may feel overwhelmed by traditional ideas of “changing the world” but are seeking small, feasible ways to make a difference. Driscoll’s optimism is infectious, encouraging readers to believe that even the simplest actions can have a ripple effect.

Driscoll explains that we all have different ways of working and giving. Some styles of giving require energy from you, while others give you joy. For instance, some people may find giving money easy because they have extra money but not much time, while others whose finances are limited might find giving money stressful, which is not conducive to joy. Other ways of giving include giving your time, using physical skills (building, repairing, hauling things), organizing, counseling, and providing advice. Driscoll encourages readers to find their optimal way of giving that aligns with their personality, resources, and current situation.

Driscoll also delves into the psychology of kindness and its impact on personal well-being. He acknowledges the potential risks of burnout for those who give without taking care of their own needs. He also explores the idea that even small acts of kindness can have unintended consequences.

Some readers might find Driscoll’s relatively brief exploration of systemic issues problematic. While the book emphasizes personal action, it doesn’t address how individual kindness fits within larger, structural efforts to combat poverty, injustice, and inequality. Driscoll’s focus on small acts of good may inadvertently downplay the importance of collective and institutional change. However, I would argue that this is not his purpose—he leaves that to others to discuss. Instead, he focuses on what an individual can do in their unique context. He acknowledges the existence of larger approaches but correctly notes that these can often remove people from the personal aspect of giving and can become overwhelming.

The Goodness Game succeeds in its primary aim: inspiring readers to integrate kindness into their daily lives in a way that is both sustainable and enjoyable. It’s an uplifting and accessible book for those who want to make a positive impact without feeling overwhelmed by the scale of global issues. Driscoll’s approach encourages readers to take manageable and realistic steps, reminding us that making the world better starts with the smallest actions.