The world needs people like you! If you’re reading this, then you’re interested in helping out. There are so many ways you can help. People need help with their fitness, their nutrition, setting goals, improving their finances, dealing with tough relationships, opening their heart, work problems, and on and on. There is no shortage of needs out there in the world and even very close to home. I bet there is something you know or have done that can help someone out. My bold request is that you start implementing more of a helping attitude into your life. You’ll see in a very short time that your own life will expand and your happiness will improve! As you may have heard, giving itself is a gift.
I was lucky enough to stumble into a bunch of people who helped me out in a time of need. When I was younger, I found myself walking down the wrong path, so to speak. I got myself into some trouble like most kids, but I found my way out of it thanks to a few key people who were willing to help. I had the great fortune of a personal alliance. I could ask certain family members if I had questions and men who were part of a group I attended. I realized that I needed consultation. I needed a crew of people (it takes a village, right?) to help me make sure I was moving in the right direction. Years later, I’m happy to say that I made it away from the rough patch and have been cruising along ever since. Don’t get me wrong, life has it’s ups and downs, but nothing like when I was younger.
Now I help other people get healthier, stay fit and start living an awesome life! I help people find what makes them tick, what gets them excited and makes them feel alive, then I help them create a plan to move toward that. It’s really simple and all you have to do is embody it, then share it.
Here are a few ways you can start your giving:
Smile
Something as simple as a smile will have a positive affect on people around you, in the grocery store, at the coffee shop, and on the street corner. Look around you, most people aren’t smiling and if you’re the bright shining light for a moment, you’ve officially given them a gift. My wife says that she likes to be the pleasant surprise for people. Smile at someone and be the pleasant surprise for them.
Hug Someone
It might be a little forward to hug a stranger, but you know darn well that you feel a deeper connection when you hug someone. The embrace is something we all do in the time of need. Look at any catastrophe or even a momentous event in someone’s life. There are always people embracing. Why? Because it just feels good. It’s simple and oh so effective. Give someone a hug and feel the love.
Pay Full Attention
It’s so easy to multitask these days, but the truth is that’s only a way to stay distracted. When we give our full attention, that in itself is a gift. You’ve heard it before, that when someone looks at their phone while at dinner, or their watch while you’re talking to them, they know your attention is disjointed. If you’re a parent, this is easy to understand. Kids are so present and they will let you know when your attention goes astray. Remember, Ghandi said, “The best way to find your self is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Take Someone on a Hike
One of the many things I do here in Malibu is lead clients on different hikes throughout the beautiful hills of Malibu. This week I was lucky enough to have the leadership team of lululemon down for a retreat. I got to lead them along an hour hike. They were so grateful to be here enjoying the beautiful hills of Malibu. I was so grateful to be able to show them the trails, challenge them along the way, and get them back safe and sound. It’s a simple thing for me, but something they’ll remember for a long time to come.
You have something that you can give. It could be money, it could be a hug, a smile, or holding someone’s hand down a hill. Start giving more now when the world needs people like you. If you need some help sorting yourself or your company out and finding your giving ways, I’m here to help. Send me a message @teddymcdonald.
Originally published on the author’s website.
