Any Impact Is Still An Impact

With us cautiously tiptoeing into 2021, quietly and calmly, its probably a good time to think about some New Year resolutions. Not the whole New Year New Me garbage we spout every year. We all (well I do!) come up with these amazing feats; losing weight, stopping smoking/ drinking, learning Spanish, getting a degree… Most of which never happens.

Although it is good to have aspirations, I am learning that you’ve got to make small changes, to make an impact long term.  Without sounding incredibly cringeworthy, I think looking after number 1 is my main goal this year – and helping as many others as I can along the way. I’d also love to get into volunteering. For any of you EastEnders fans out there, their NYE episode with Mick on the phone to the Samaritans really hit hard.

Volunteering

There are many reasons to get into volunteering. Perhaps there is a particular charity close to your heart, that you or a loved one has had to use in the past. Maybe you love helping others. It could be that you have suddenly found yourself with plenty of spare time, and you’d like to try something different. Whatever your reason, below are five great reasons to just do it!

Make Yourself Stand Out

A selfish reason perhaps – but volunteering always looks good on your CV. In a time where jobs are scarce and the amount of people out of work, it is always a good to stand out. And with volunteering on your CV, it may make you stand out enough to get the job, over 10 other people who have identical qualifications.

Being Kind

In a world where being locked indoors is the new norm, we have seen so much kindness. I am not mushy in any way, shape or form – but I do believe in karma, and compassion. Manners do not cost a penny, and let’s be honest. We have all been in a stage where we have needed a helping hand – whether something as simple as a smile from a stranger, a free coffee just because, or a rock when we have been at our lowest.

Learning New Skills

Volunteering can also help boost your skillset in certain areas. From learning counselling to help out with the Samaritans, to first aid, leadership and communication; there will always be ways you can further your career. You may decide you want to start a new career entirely, and you may be able to get a helping hand up the ladder learning skills where you volunteer.

Make Friends and Networking

Making new friends and acquaintances is never a bad thing. Apart from the fact human beings are social beings, it is always good to learn to network. Even if it just gives you a chance to practise your social skills. Plus, you never know; you may end up helping someone who has helped you previously, or in the future!

Dummy Run

You may be interested in a new job, but unsure of whether or not to make the switch. What better way to dip your toe in the proverbial water, than to volunteer? You may end up gaining a whole new career out of it!

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