It’s not hard to feel despair—all one needs to do is turn on the news. Death, destruction, misery, and the loss of hope are on full display. Sometimes, it’s enough to send any sane person into sadness and depression.
But a dear friend once shared with me that the quickest way out of these terrible states is to purposefully perform selfless acts for others. It doesn’t have to involve anyone you know or be an act of great effort, but it does need to come with the loving intention of improving someone else’s life.
Consider a few ideas:
- Make someone feel heard by truly listening.
- Help someone with a bundle if they’re struggling.
- Give up your seat on public transportation.
- Buy someone a meal or a coffee.
- Give someone who has done you a service a generous tip and thank them.
- Offer your assistance when the opportunity arises.
- Volunteer your time reading to children or the elderly.
- Do something to make another person feel special.
- Allow someone to go in front of you at the grocery store.
We can make the world a better place by small, intentional acts.
