Volunteering and Self-Esteem

Posted on January 22, 2020 by Shelley Davis, One of Thousands of Life Coaches on Noomii.

Volunteering and Self-Esteem

One excellent way to build self-esteem is by volunteering. Getting up off your backside and finding some place that can use your skills, talents or time. Every community has need of volunteers on short and long term basis and if you look you could find something you really enjoy. Like a Senior Citizen I know that plays chess a couple times a month at the high school chess club meetings. He loves chess and the challenge of new players. The chess club gets someone who can teach them some new moves and who encourages players win or lose.

Why volunteer?
It gives you a sense of purpose. By volunteering, you are helping the community and making a difference to something other than yourself, and it is empowering to be doing something that really does matter.
It’s an opportunity for people interaction. It doesn’t matter whether you interact with one person or a group of people. It is a great way to meet new people build social skills and practice social interaction. Volunteering in a team or group can create an even stronger sense of belonging and you might also make some new real friends.

It takes the focus away from yourself. Focusing on something else distracts your mind from any negative thoughts you may have and gives you perspective on the world around you. When you give of your time and or talent people are happy to have you around and a feeling of worthiness can

You can learn new skills and gain experience. It’s fun to learn something new, and you could gain valuable skills that can be used on a resume. Bring a volunteer can also take you outside of your comfort zone, lift your mood and gives you an opportunity to face your fears in a safe environment.

Volunteering is a win win situation. The organization or group you volunteer with gains a valuable resource and you can gain new skills, new friends and self esteem.