If you’re discouraged about the way the world is going, take heart. You can make a difference. Reach out to help others. Not only will you feel better, but you become connected to other people, and your kindness is paid forward.
Kent J Thiry former DaVita’s executive CEO has created many philanthropic projects and believes that the community should always come first. Putting others before yourself is key to being happy. Here are some ways you can help others.
1. Teach What You Know
No matter what you know, you likely have a valuable skill you can pass on to others.
Teach them those skills, whether it’s a foreign language or how to type. You can help them find a better job or simply improve their lives.
2. Say a Word of Appreciation
People need to hear that they are valued. Improve the lives of others by letting them know how much you appreciate them.
Send an email or a note thanking people for their help. Tell people what you enjoy most about them. Your words of kindness can inspire and motivate others to do better. They, in turn, will help others.
3. Offer To Babysit
Life can be frustrating and hectic for the parents of small children. They love their kids, but sometimes they could use a break.
You can help. Offer to take a rambunctious child or two to the playground or to the zoo for the afternoon. Give an exhausted mother a chance to take a nap.
4. Be Willing To Listen
When you have someone who is willing to listen to you, your brain functions better. You’re able to stay sharper. Help others by being willing to listen.
Make friends with someone in a nursing home and visit that person regularly. You’ll enjoy the friendship, and you’ll be helping.
5. Donate to Charities
Find a charity you like and donate money. But do more than that. Volunteer your time as well as your finances.
By volunteering periodically, you have a connection with others in your community and you’ll enjoy getting to know other people. You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing you helped.
6. Be Friendly
Smiling at others and saying a kind word benefits them but it also helps you. Research has shown that smiling adds years to your life.
Smiling can also change the moods of others. Make their day and remind them they have something to smile about.
7. Perform Small Kindnesses
Simple acts of kindness mean the world to others. Give up your seat on the bus for an elderly person, or open the door for someone who is loaded down.
You can ease their stress, and you’ll be happier as well.
You don’t have to spend a lot of time or money when you choose to help others. Small acts of kindness or saying an uplifting word or two can have a powerful impact.
Then others will be kind as well. It’s a simple yet powerful way of building a better world.