There’s no argument that modern society is geared toward the “self.” Many of the interpersonal and community problems faced by people and groups all over the world are due to seemingly unquenchable desires to satisfy impulses. Decay within neighborhoods and a general distancing of people from one another is a direct result of self-centeredness and a popular (if not fashionable) attitude of personal aggrandizement. Positively affecting the people around you requires setting aside some selfie time for exercises in reconnecting with the greater human sphere. Here are five ways to truly impact the people around you.
Notice a Common Need and Act
Several recent news features have highlighted the actions of young people overwhelmed with the need to help their community. These actions range from mowing people’s lawns, to playing piano at a local nursing home, some people even cut hair for the homeless. Identify one of your talents, or skills and offer them for free to people needing them. Consider all the times in life when someone helped you out and pay it forward to society. There are tons of opportunities out there for things like this. All you have to do is look for them. It really is amazing how much of an impact the smallest acts of service can have.
Volunteer at Schools and in Community Non-Profits
Many non-profit education, arts, and community improvement organizations are desperately searching for volunteers to run programs and guide participants. The great thing about these organizations is that they are found everywhere (so there is no excuse). Everyone who uses non-profits is looking for help and guidance in some area. Being a volunteer enables you to directly affect the improvement of someone’s life. There is absolutely nothing better you can do with your time than to get out and serve.
Take Time to Listen and Observe
Modern society is loud and sometimes overly aggressive. Many people are looking for others who can zero-in on them on an interpersonal level. Take a few minutes each day to observe the world silently. This will slowly instill the ability to find deeper meanings in mundane things. A refined ability to listen, comprehend without judgement, and participate in meaningful conversations is a rare quality that can go a long way. When the opportunity arises, you will be prepared to provide comfort to a neighbor in need of someone who is willing to listen.
Consider Adoption
This is not an easy way to help those around you, but it is important. While utilizing the professional services of an accredited adoption agency, such as A Child’s Dream, it might be worth considering adopting a child. Abandoned and orphaned children are perhaps the largest portion of the world’s population that are in need of real human connection and stability. Adopting a child saves a life and builds close families.
Disconnect
The original impetus behind the rise and proliferation of technology and social media was bringing people closer together quickly, but the opposite seems to have occurred. In order to discover how you can positively affects others, you may need to put down the smartphone for a while. Try to be one of the lucky few who rediscover what it is like to interact with others without the aid of a lithium battery.
Logically, bettering the lives of other people requires certain sacrifices of personal luxuries and habits. Fortunately, helping others is a cascading endeavor. Once you start on the path of any humanitarian effort, it becomes easier and easier with every action. There’s a high probability that you might even enjoy it. Start small, but notice how every positive interpersonal action results in mutual goodwill. It really is amazing how much of a difference you will notice in your life when you take the time to find ways to serve.
Featured photo credit: www.Pixabay.com via pixabay.com
