Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable…Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.
—Martin Luther King, Jr.
We don’t have the time…
When asked why we can’t volunteer, that is usually the excuse we use most. We all realize that time is precious, it can’t be bought or traded–it’s limited.
So, we guard it. We do things that benefit ourselves rather than helping others.
But, do we realize that by helping others, we are actually helping ourselves?
When we do a generous act, like giving our time to help someone, our body releases a chemical into our blood stream–that chemical is oxytocin.
Oxytocin is known as the “love hormone,” but it isn’t limited to simply hug and kisses. Oxytocin is released whenever we help others.
What oxytocin does to our body is the amazing part.
Releasing stress, reducing addiction, improving social skills, improving our ability to think–all of these improvements are side effects of oxytocin rushing through our veins. Oxytocin even increases generosity: the more acts of kindness you do, the more generous you become, which creates a snowball effect.
Our bodies naturally reward us for the selfless deeds we do for others. And, because of this, I suggest that we change the way we think about volunteering. We should realize that volunteering will not only help others in need, but it will even help us emotionally in our own lives.
Having oxytocin flow through our veins will help us build deeper relationships and become a better version of ourselves. The price is a little bit of time to help others and sacrifice your time.
So, do something for yourself, by doing a kind act for another.