We all want to make a difference. Sometimes when we think about what to do, or how to do it, we get bogged down or overwhelmed, or worry that our efforts could be costly. That doesn’t have to be the case. It’s the little things done daily that make the difference in the end. If you want to feel good about your giveback, here five things you can do today that might change a life tomorrow. Feel free to share easy ideas anyone can add to their day that will help spread the sunshine, at little or no cost!
- Smile and greet every person that comes within a five-foot radius, and beyond
In our gadget focused world, we spend more time looking at devices than people. It’s actually a little startling, and often very welcome, when we get a cheery hello. It’s a reassuring reminder when we connect with other humans, and it doesn’t cost a thing. You may make a lonely person’s day or smile at someone who usually gets a stare and provide a much needed lift without even realizing it.
- Help Someone Without Being Asked
Whether that means carrying groceries for someone, running an errand, volunteering to babysit, cooking a meal, cleaning a house, mowing your elderly neighbor’s lawn, or dropping off diapers to a nonprofit, it’s all good. Even the smallest assistance to someone in need can make a big difference. For a frazzled new mom, two hours of sleep while you babysit can be a lifesaver. A sick, disabled, or elderly person in need of a ride to the store or a doctor would surely appreciate your help, and they might welcome a house cleaning too. A busy single mom working full time and raising kids would be ecstatic if someone dropped off some of their homecooked spaghetti or lasagna for dinner.
- Teach Something
Show someone how to use that weird thing in the gym. Teach someone how to cook a meal. Show your Mom how to Snapchat or set up FB on Dad’s phone and show him how to take a pic and share. Help a kid with homework. Teach someone a song and sing it with them. Share your mad knitting skills with a community home or teach a group of friends how to play gin rummy. Teaching something is fun and might open up a whole new world of interests for those you share with.
- Learn Something
Go on YouTube and find a video tutorial about something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do. Figure out Excel at last or sit down with your phone and figure out a cool app you’ve never used. Find out what the heck a down dog is and try it. Learn sign language and practice it every day. Do a CPR class. Master the art of hair braiding. Use your new skills to practice #2 above.
- Grow Something
Now is the time, even if it’s snowing. Find out what grows best in your area, pick the spot, buy the seeds, or start something in a pot in your house. Grow and eat your own fruits and veggies and share them with neighbors and friends. Join the Arbor Day Foundation and plant a tree, or have one planted in areas of need. Grow beautiful flowers, and share them with friends, family, and strangers. Make them into arrangements and deliver them to hospitals and nursing homes.
None of these suggestions are very difficult or costly, yet they can all make a difference. Changing the world is easier when you start with your own small corner and develop small daily habits that will add up to big rewards over time. Hopefully this list made a difference and sparked some ideas for you to try!