We’re getting into the season of love, when we feel the urge to give and share and make the lives of others brighter. We buy gifts for loved ones and give money to charities. We may even break our long-standing rule and give a buck to the homeless person standing outside the grocery store.
But we can also personalize and humanize our help. Someone who knits or sews for relaxation can make items for a specific charity (new, handmade items are a treat). When you cook your specialty, double up and take the extra to someone who is sick or living alone. Bake your favorite cookies, muffins, or scones to take to a shelter. Go to the movies often? Brighten the life of someone on limited income by treating him sometime, explaining that you’ll enjoy it more in his company. Like gardening? Help an elderly or disabled person plant a small, manageable garden at her home, then stop by often to admire its progress. If you unwind by doing auto repairs, volunteer to help get that laid-off neighbor’s car into running order.
The key is this: figure out what you do as a hobby, then share. You’ll find it more enjoyable—and more fulfilling—than ever before.