Franklin suggests that kindness towards others can also benefit the person who acts kindly. Helping, treating people fairly or showing consideration may strengthen relationships, build trust and contribute to a sense of personal integrity. The saying therefore rejects a strict division between concern for others and concern for oneself.

The maxim does not mean that every good deed will produce a direct reward or that kindness should be offered only for personal advantage. Its broader point is that ethical conduct can have benefits in both directions. By contributing to the wellbeing of others, a person may also create stronger relationships, a better reputation and greater satisfaction with their own behaviour. Franklin therefore presents goodness as something that can serve both social and personal wellbeing without reducing it to self-interest.