On a typical day, you might give money to a homeless man on the street. Or maybe you’ll spend time with your mom who is struggling with depression. You may give some of your free time to coaching a youth soccer team or volunteer as an office assistant at your church. It’s tempting to think that giving can only happen in one-time acts of generosity, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are many ways you can give back throughout the day, and here are just 8 of them to help do you good.
Give compliments
Compliments are one of the easiest ways to give to someone you encounter throughout the day. People love compliments. When you offer a compliment, it can make others feel good about themselves and they may be more likely to return the favor when they see you in the future. Give compliments freely and often!
Speak kind words
As the old saying goes, you reap what you sow. When you speak kind words to others, those people will remember them and they may be more likely to pass those words on. A simple gesture like a compliment about someone’s new haircut or dress can go a long way.
Give yourself a break
Sometimes, when we’re in a tough spot, the last thing we want to do is give. But one of the best ways to give back is by taking some time for yourself. That could mean going on a walk, reading a book, or cooking a favorite meal. It could also mean going to bed early, turning off your phone notifications, and working from home. Find whatever it is that refreshes you – and then take some time for yourself!
Give your time
There are so many ways to give your time. You may be able to donate some of your free time regularly or do so sporadically. You can volunteer at your church, coach a youth soccer team, help out with some chores around the house, or spend some time mentoring someone who is struggling with depression.
If you have any skills that are in-demand locally, you might be able to do that as well. For instance, if you’re handy with computers you could offer your services to someone who needs them for work or their business.
Giving your time doesn’t mean it has to take up too much of your day––you can make a difference in someone’s life by giving just an hour every week!
Give forgiveness
Just as you may have been forgiven by others, it’s important to offer forgiveness for others’ mistakes. As a human being, you know what it feels like to be wronged and want closure. But don’t forget that people often need someone to forgive them before they can forgive themselves.
Give a hug
Hugs are free, they’re warm, and they can do wonders for someone’s mood. Of course, you don’t need to be the only one getting a hug. You can give a hug to your family or friends when they need it most. When you have kids, one of the best ways you can teach them to give back is by having them give hugs to their younger siblings or cousins. It’s easy, it’s simple – but it’ll make both of you feel better.
Give feedback
One of the best ways to give is by giving feedback. Feedback is one of the simplest yet most powerful gifts you can give. It takes very little time but it tells your recipient that you care about them and that they are important to you. Feedback can be given in many different forms, whether it’s a congratulatory pat on the back, a “thank you”, an affirmation, or encouragement to try again. You don’t need to know what to say or how to say it – all you need is the willingness to tell someone that their efforts are noticed and appreciated.
Follow your passion.
We often think of giving back as a one-time act of generosity. But that doesn’t have to be the case. You can give back throughout the day, and it might even feel good! One way to do this is by following your passions.
If you’re passionate about gardening, you might spend time planting flowers in someone’s garden every week. If you love reading, you could volunteer at the library helping kids find books they enjoy reading.
Follow your passion to make a difference in someone else’s life – and yours!
ALSO READ
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- How to Raise Money for the NGO You Love.
- Top 8 Charities Foundations in Nigeria to Help You Give Back
- Ways to Motivate Volunteers.