In life, everyone wants to do something that is meaningful that serves a purpose. However, when people do not do anything in life to make them feel worth living, they will put a lot of pressure on themselves which will develop into stress. One of the best methods to fulfill a meaningful purpose is through helping others and the community.
A satisfied feeling will develop within people when they have done something to make a difference for society. People do not need a lot of money to make a big difference in society because it is not how much money they have, but how much heart people put into their time and support to the activities.
Benefits from helping others:
• Increase happiness
• Increase a boost in a feel-good part of the brain
• Remind people that they relatively lucky
• Feel connected to others
• Feel needed and effective
• Take the mind off worries for a while
• Feel generous
• Add a sense of purpose and meaning to life
Tips on helping others
• Call a friend to see how she's doing
• Cook a meal for the family
• Let a car merges in front
• Smile at a stranger in the street
• Hold the elevator door for others
Even though a small generosity might not have a big impact at the moment, many small generosities could make a big difference. However, people should be careful when others ask favors. Sometimes it is perfectly fine to say no to favors.
Ways to Volunteer:
• School or tutoring program
• Clean up a local park
• Work with immigrants
• Community events
• Volunteer as a coach
• Local hospital or clinic
Ways to find volunteer opportunities:
• Call the city or county information line, ask for volunteer coordinator service
• Check the Yellow Pages under “Volunteer Clearinghouse” or “Volunteer Center”
• Visit http://www.volunteermatch.org or www.1-800-volunteer.org
• Check the local Mental Health America affiliate
Check out these articles on how to decrease stress in order to enjoy life:
5 simple ways to reduce stress through meditation
How positive thinking leads to positive outcomes
Love yourself will lead to care for others
How to take control of your anger
Comments
Right on! It's important to help out with your heart. But if you can donate money because you don't have time to volunteer, then that's a good thing too.
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