by Kathleen Richardson

Created on: May 22, 2008   Last Updated: May 24, 2008

We're not often encouraged to yield to self-gratification. Instead, we're more likely to find ourselves in the position of having to satisfy someone else's needs. As part of a society programmed to take care of everyone else, we forget that taking care of ourselves first will increase our willingness, stamina, and insight, enabling us to take better care of others.

Encouraged to volunteer, we're told "you can give back to your community", "you'll feel so good giving to others", "this is a chance for you to do unto others as you would have them do unto you", and "there are so many others who don't have the advantages you do."

When we do focus on our own needs first, we're viewed as selfish. What, however, if we changed our perspective and looked at volunteering as a way to pamper ourselves and as a result we end up helping others?

While volunteering is viewed by many as a wonderful way to "give back" to the community, it might also be seen as a way to indulge ourselves. Consider the following viewpoints which not only show what is given but also counterpoints what is received by the volunteer:

*You have chosen to volunteer and that means engaging in an activity that you are no way obligated to do, so there has to be a high degree of self-satisfaction involved.

*You are using one or more of your skills and can take pride in being able to share that particular know-how and one result is that you're helping others in the process.

*You often have the opportunity to learn a new skill. This not only involves self-satisfaction, but also stimulates your brain contributing to long-lived intellect and alertness. You've heard it before: "Use it or lose it." So use your brain to learn a new skill and there are benefits all round.

*Among the staff, other volunteers, and consumers, you will find new friends. Friends are an important part of the supportive relationships that makes our lives run smoothly, also contributing to long life.

*Everyone likes to inspire others and volunteers are inspirational in that they set an example and set a standard for other volunteers and potential volunteers.

If you are considering volunteering the ultimate in giving-because someone else is pushing you to do it, look deeper. Then, go ahead and take the leap, because you'll find that you are actually satisfying some of your innermost desires by discovering self-satisfaction, long life, learning, and friendship.

Indulge yourself: Volunteer!

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