It is one of the beautiful compensations of life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
Volunteer work of some kind is one of my most often prescribed remedies for a wide range of symptoms. The reason: more and more research is showing an inverse relationship between happiness and thinking about yourself. What better way to think about others than to serve them in some way? Emotionally speaking we all exist on multiple continuums. One of these is the space between feeling helpless and feeling helpful. It’s not hard to imagine how brooding about your real (or perceived) shortcomings for an extended period of time could zap your happiness. Getting involved as a volunteer for an organization or cause you are passionate about provides an opportunity to feel (and actually be) helpful.
Volunteering also doesn’t have to mean committing to a formal organization or adding another major responsibility to your schedule. Helping a neighbor, serving at your child’s school, participating in a community event, supporting a local cause, or checking in on someone who could use a little extra help all count. The goal isn’t to fill your calendar. It’s to intentionally take some of the attention off yourself and use your time and abilities in a way that helps someone else. Even small acts of service can provide connection, purpose, and a reminder that you have something meaningful to contribute.
I recommend that you start small, but I would also suggest that you stay small in the time and effort you donate as a volunteer. I donate one session of counseling per week to current or former military veterans for an organization called Give An Hour. Not only do I enjoy the benefits of feeling good about giving back, but I can give one hour per week endlessly without suffering burn out. If you try to give more time than you can truly afford, it could backfire in the form of you eventually feeling resentful of the perceived demand on your time. It could also have a similar effect on your relationships as others feel they are no longer your priority. Either of these outcomes would negate all positive gains achieved through volunteerism. So be careful to consider how much time you can give while still maintaining other relationships, responsibilities, and personal time. If one hour per week is all you can give, then give it happily. Some charity, organization, or group would be glad to have your contribution.
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