Finding purpose and meaning in life is the key to happiness. But many people have consciously and unconsciously driven themselves to the edge of depression and oblivion in the quest for happiness. Happiness may seem elusive for many people, yet many also thrive in it.
Charity is a history-old tradition spoken of and practiced by philosophers such as Aristotle, philosophers, psychologists, and ordinary people alike. Science has proven the connection between helping others and happiness. If you are struggling to find meaning in life, the following activities can help you create happiness in your life.
Surround Yourself With Quality Friends
When choosing your friends, always go for quality and not quantity. Having a dozen friends who don’t support your dreams is a lonesome and frustrating experience. Always be intentional when choosing your friends. Avoid the temptation of filling your life with mere acquaintances who don’t add value to your life. A good friend helps in bringing out the best in you and supports your aspirations. Friends should be a source of positive energy and fiercest constructive critics. Tag your friends along for those charitable runs or volunteer events.
Engage in Random Acts of Kindness
Be spontaneous and intentional when showing kindness to others. If you are walking along the park or street and see a homeless family, buy them a snack as a spur-of-the-moment action. When helping others, all that counts is the intention and heart. The feel-good factor that comes with helping others is triggered by having happy thoughts about your actions. The joyful smile from a beneficiary will remain in your memory for years to come.
Learn About the Plight of Others
Understanding the plight of others can help you to get a feel of their experiences. Learning about their troubles will steal your determination to make a difference. Therefore, take time to learn more on how to communicate with the hearing impaired. Visit the local palliative care unit or home for the elderly. You’ll get a better feel of their experiences. Your definition of life and happiness will be shaped by those minutes or hours you spend with the people who need your compassionate care and loving-kindness.
Volunteer
Whether it is participating in community beautification programs, disaster relief response, donating clothes and blankets to the homeless, or serving food at the local homeless center, you can make a huge difference in the lives of many people. Our communities require change agents who can help in putting a smile on the faces of the needy. Volunteering is a great way to make a difference while also giving a sense of purpose and meaning. Therefore, volunteering at the local nursing home may be the jab you needed to look at life positively.
Helping others is a long-held practice that cuts across all social, cultural, religious, and physical borders. It is the glue that holds the global community together. If you want happiness in your life, be happy with who you are first, then spread happiness to the world by engaging in charitable activities. Be intentional in your actions, including when choosing friends.
Leave a Reply