It is proven that giving and kindness can help improve your wellbeing.
This is because giving to others creates positive feelings and a sense of reward. It will provide you with a sense of purpose and helps you to connect with others.
Any small act of kindness can have a significant impact on how you feel. But if you have time, larger ones like volunteering in your local community can make a massive difference.
The greatest gifts you can give cost nothing. So, here are four ideas on how you can make giving to others a regular part of your life:
Say thank you
Has someone done something for you? Take the time to say thank you. This could be a case of sending a text message or buying them a card. If you want to, you could do something even more significant – like taking someone out for a meal to say thanks.
Whatever you choose to do, the thought will be appreciated. It’s obvious to say, but making other people feel good will make you feel good too.
Give to a friend in need
If you know someone going through a tough time, then letting them know you are there for them can make all the difference.
Be there for them and really listen to what they’re saying. Consider how you could brighten their day by buying them a bunch of flowers or help them out by making up a batch of soup, a shepherd’s pie, or something else you know they like, so that they don’t have to worry about meal preparation for a couple of days. You could also offer to give them space and time by taking care of their children.
Giving and fundraising
Fundraising can be a lot of fun and is very easy to do these days. You can set up a just giving page to fundraise online.
Taking the time to fundraise will put you in contact with lots of people and encourage you to get involved in lots of activities, which will help improve how you feel. For example, you could organise a bake sale, do a sponsored run or a sponsored car wash.
Fundraising opportunities can be big or small commitments, so choose something that suits you.
Volunteer in your community
Volunteer your time to help others is a proven way to improve mental health. It is also a great way to connect with other volunteers as well as the people you are supporting. Start by finding a group you are interested in or a local charity. Get in touch and see if they need help. Or you can offer a favour to a neighbour or help out a colleague at work.
- Find local volunteering opportunities at Volunteer Telford
- Volunteer for Friends of Telford Town Park
Want to know more about improving how you feel?
Join our Year of Wellbeing and make a pledge to improve your wellbeing this year. Once you have made your pledge, we will email you with tips and information – as well as helpful reminders to help you achieve your wellbeing goal.
This is your time to feel healthier and happier – join the Year of Wellbeing today.
