The gift of giving is a beautiful experience. For 3 years I volunteered my time and energy into coaching the North Lakes Mustangs soccer club. One afternoon I received a text message from a friend asking if I wanted to coach her son’s team as a volunteer. Which I replied with a yes. Why? because soccer has given me so much happiness over my life with amazing friendships, the love for travel and belonging to a wonderful community it’s been a huge part of my life since I was young. To see the children get so much out of it to see them grow each week and each season was special to see them having fun while playing and making great friendships along the way was a real joy.  Giving has been proven to decrease blood pressure and reduce stress. This reduction promotes longer life and better health. Giving promotes social connection. Studies show that when you give to others, your generosity is often continued down the line to someone else, or returned to you. 

Here are 3 ways you can give “The gift of giving” today or for the future.

1. Smile and be friendly. Sometimes a simple little thing like this can put a smile and warm feeling in someone else’s heart, and make their day a little better. They might then do the same for others.
2. Love. Simply finding ways to express your love to others, whether it be your partner, child, other family member, friend, co-worker, or a complete stranger … just express your love. A hug, a kind word, spending time, showing little kindnesses, being friendly it all matters more than you know.
3. Donate something you don’t use. Or a whole box of somethings. Drop them off at a charity — others can put your clutter to good use.