Humans have a natural tendency to give back to those in need. It’s in our nature, and it’s how we prosper. The secret formula to living a fulfilling life is to give back.
Sometimes we consume too much. You may be wondering what I mean by that. In a world of mass communication and constant technological innovation, it’s really easy for us to Google a question, shop online, video chat with your aunt in China to know what’s going on around the world.
Knowledge is great, but sometimes we consume too much unnecessary information and lose ourselves in things like massive Hollywood gossip and Wall Street scandals. Our world has become so materialistic that consumers are willing to camp outside for days to get the newest iPhone. Fast food restaurants are everywhere, and our occasional indulging has become a daily activity. The truth is that we consume too much of everything.
To balance this overconsumption of information, events, food, goods and so on, giving back is the best way to go. It’s simple, yet fulfilling. Instead of creeping on your friends’ Facebook and Instagram profiles, try volunteering at the soup kitchen or at a daycare. You’ll realize how fun it is.
Face-to-face human interaction is much better than virtual, and by giving more of yourself to others, you’ll feel great. You’ll realize that the latest celebrity breakup isn’t worth your time and energy. Making new friends through volunteering and improving other people’s lives is worth every minute.
Through volunteering, I saw that we take everything for granted. We over-consume when there are people in the world who don’t get to consume anything. It’s a perspective change. Volunteer and have fun.
Volunteers clean up Hogtown Creek near Lowe's Home Improvement, 2564 NW 13th St., in April 2013. Volunteers picked up about 3,000 pounds of trash during the cleanup event.
