Why should you feel good? Giving is one of the best ways to feel better every day. What did you today for someone else? What do you give? You make a difference when you give. Someone in need gets a helping hand because of you. And that leaves you feeling good. Whether you give time or money, or both, that will leave you wanting to do more. Ideas and Places to Volunteer Habitat for Humanity Homeless Shelter Soup Kitchen Local animal shelter Cards for Our Vets Elderly homes American Red Cross (give blood) Organize a fundraising event Start a clothing collection Local Library Participate in a charity walk or run What do YOU get from this? Studies show that giving, especially spending money on others instead of yourself, makes you feel happier than spending money for yourself. The Mayo Clinic know you get health benefits from giving. Acts of kindness reduce depression, headaches, and gives you a daily boost to your mood. Giving your time to others gives the same "feel good" dopamine boost as eating a chocolate bar. The feeling will actually make you want to give and do more. There's actually a term for this: the Helper's High. Is Volunteering a Selfless Act? The short answer is no. It's true that giving to help others definitely benefits others, but you get benefits as well: You strengthen your community by working in a group.You get out of the house to do something new.You increase your personal efficiency by scheduling time for others.People who enjoy volunteering live longer.You boost your dopamine levels and feel better.There's just a good feeling to be able to say "I made a difference."You are able to better appreciate the life you have.Helping others presents opportunities to develop lifelong friendships.Volunteering can even develop a career path. So what now? Volunteer. Give time and money (if you have it) to charitable causes you believe in. Become invested in your community. Simply find someone near you who needs help and lend a hand. Find a cause through the list above, through work, or through a friend, and get involved. You won't regret it. You'll find that by helping others, you'll also find more in your life to be grateful for. Please share this post with anyone you know. It all starts with a simple act.
