This may seem a little crazy and maybe even selfish but hear me out. Most people, want to give back in one way or another. We know that usually, even when we have it hard, someone else has it harder. But most of us are also strapped for time and money so how can we help? Volunteering your time is one of the most valuable. How do you figure out who to spend your time with though? This can be done is so many ways. The first thing I recommend is do something you’re passionate about. It’s even better if it’s not related to your career. Volunteering can be a great outlet for your creative energy and forcing your mind to think in a different way to what you do every day will help you and make sure you’re fresh for the work you’re doing for the organization. If it does have to be related, try to make it something that’s different from what you do every day.
Here are some ideas:
If you work in customer service, try doing something where you don’t have to talk to people all day. You could walk dogs or pet cats, build homes, etc. You will still have to talk but if the brunt of the work can be on your own, it can be hugely restorative for you and you’re doing a nice thing!
If you are trapped in the office or at home all day, get out! Maybe volunteer at a soup kitchen type place and talk to people there. Try volunteering for Meals on Wheels or in an assisted living home and chat with someone who has stories from before you were born and no one to share them with. Or volunteer with kids as a tutor or mentor.
I spend a lot of time helping clients make sure their dogs are well cared for and chatting with dog walkers. I have a lot of balance and I’m thankful for that. I joined Period Kits because it’s a totally different problem than I usually face. It gives me the opportunity to flex muscles I don’t usually and to have new experiences and learn new skills. I could go to school and learn more about urban planning and challenges, or I could get involved! Learning on the ground is much more valuable than from above in my opinion. You should never join an organization solely because you think they have something to give you. Make sure you’re an asset to them too. But there is no reason you shouldn’t learn while you’re there. It’s easier to find the time if you’re using volunteering as some self care (puppy pets) or learning a new skill that you can take advantage of later.
What have you learned from volunteering? Were you ever able to leverage those experiences and skills in a career?