Here’s Why You Should Volunteer More Than You Think

About 25% of Americans volunteer their time. They volunteer an average of 32 hours per year.

While this is a great start, it isn’t nearly enough!

Volunteering is essential to help those in need, but it does so much more than that. It can benefit the person volunteering in ways that are immeasurable. 

Keep reading to learn the importance of volunteering and why you should do more of it on a regular basis.

The Importance of Volunteering

We all know that volunteering is important to help others in need and further essential causes. Spending a few hours helping out improves the community as a whole. 

Many helpful organizations depend on volunteers to be able to do their good work. They wouldn’t be able to afford to pay people a salary to do the work of the volunteers. 

How can it help you? 

Personal Connections 

Volunteering is a great way to widen your social circle and make personal connections with people who have similar values to you. You’ll be able to meet new people and through your hard work, make new friends. 

If you’ve recently moved to a new city, volunteering is a great way to feel connected to your new home. You’ll be able to make local connections and broaden your support network. 

Build Self Worth 

By doing something good for others, you’ll feel better about yourself. Taking on a challenge and accomplishing it will build both your self-confidence and self-esteem. 

You could really challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone by volunteering overseas. This gives you the chance to see the world and conquer your own insecurities at the same time. 

Better Physical Health 

Volunteering can have positive effects on your physical health, too.

There are obvious ways that are a result of doing physical activity while volunteering. This will get your blood pumping and your muscles moving. 

Those who volunteer tend to have lower blood pressure and lower mortality rates. They also tend to have fewer occurrences of hypertension, which leads to heart disease, stroke, and premature death. 

Tackle Your Own Problems 

Sometimes your own problems begin to weigh on you, and you start to lose sight of where you’re going. Volunteering is a great way to remove yourself from the situation and get some clarity. You may find that your problems aren’t as bad as you thought they were. 

It can also help to get an outside perspective so that you can find a new solution. 

Go and Volunteer 

Not that you know the importance of volunteering, it’s time to get out there and do it. Look in your local community for ways you can volunteer a few hours of your time. 

If you’re looking for a real adventure, you can volunteer to do work overseas.

Either way, you’ll find that the experience allows you to grow as a person. You’ll learn a lot about yourself and others along the way!

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