Five Ways to Give that Aren't Money

Plant flowers in others’ gardens and your life becomes a bouquet! — Unknown

Plant the seed of giving and watch it grow. As spring emerges (well, at least here in the south), this quote reminds us to stop and ask, what are we doing to plant flowers in others’ gardens?

Photo used with permission courtesy of Unsplash

We often think that giving has to be grand gesture rather than a kind word, or a giant check rather than a collaboration. When we define giving only as money, we forget that often a helping hand might really be what’s needed. Even a simple act like smiling at a stranger might be what  you can give that day. And smiles are beautiful!

Practice Random Acts of Kindness
A kind note left on a teacher’s desk. Picking up trash in the park. A home cooked meal for your family or a neighbor. The opportunities to share a bit of kindness with those around you are endless.

If you need a little inspiration on how to practice kindness in your daily life, we at See Beautiful love the book Kindness Boomerang by our friend Orly Wahba. Kindness Boomerang lays out one simple act a day to make a big difference in the lives of others, as well as our own lives. Because kindness, after all, like a boomerang, always comes back around.
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Ask How You Can Help
​Sometimes it’s pretty clear what kind of help is needed for an individual, family, or organization. For example, an organization may have a list on their website of donations needed. Simple enough. But other times, you may know of an individual, family, or organization in need, but you are not sure what would be most helpful. In this case, don’t be afraid to ask. Offer what you can to help.

Photo used with permission courtesy of Unsplash

Volunteer
This one almost goes without saying, but often, time and attention are the greatest gifts you can deliver. It’s great if you can consistently volunteer, but even helping at a large event every once in awhile counts. Volunteering is also an opportunity to find and share your unique gifts. Check out volunteermatch.org or idealist.org to find the perfect organization or event to offer your time to.

Be an Example of Giving to Others
This doesn’t mean you need to shout from the rooftop, “Look at me! I give!” But, rather, this means exemplifying a spirit of generosity and helpfulness to others. When others catch wind of your giving spirit, it may inspire those around you to do the same. Children especially are influenced by your actions. One of the best ways to encourage giving in children is do it yourself.

Nourish Yourself
Sometimes we need to stop and plant flowers in our own garden before tending to other’s gardens. Sometimes we are in such a season of giving, that our soil is depleted. We might begin to feel tired, uninspired, or even resentful. When this happens, you must give to yourself before you can give to others.

Don’t forget to regularly check in with yourself and take time to recharge. Do what energizes you. Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, finding time to catch up on your sleep, or finally checking out that yoga class, self care will go along way in getting you back on the path of giving.

This list only scratches the surface. How else do you give? Please share your brilliance in the comments below.

Author

Jannan Poppen, Giving Coordinator