Giving without expectation - Five easy ways to give back

Anyone who knows me knows that I love to give back whenever I can. I think you could probably characterize me as an altruistic person, although I’m sure I have my selfish tendencies now and again when it comes to making sure my family’s needs are met.

Merriam-Webster defines altruism as: unselfish regard for or devotion to the welfare of others

I’ve been thinking about the various ways that I can and have given back, and what I can do going forward. In the past I’ve donated to our local food pantry, bought those mystery bags at the grocery store that get donated to the food bank, given items to our local Goodwill store, donated to charitable causes, and have many times offered up items we are not longer using or in need of for free to anyone who wants them. Sometimes they are even new items.

One thing that I’ve really been thinking about for quite some time though is how I can help new mothers. Especially those who may be under-privileged or in great need of some help. I don’t have a ton of resources myself, so my options are limited, but I’ve come up with some ideas that I think can help — even if just a tiny bit.

Gift Baskets for New Parents!

My friend Nicole (one of our contributors here) runs a great non-profit volunteer program in her area called Neveah’s Rainbow Project, which I have donated to on multiple occasions but I really wanted something that could serve my local area. The idea of donating gift baskets was partly inspired by her project.

I am still not certain on the best way to go about getting these gift baskets out to those who truly need them, but I think dropping them at the local hospital might be a start. If you have any other suggestions feel free to chime in in the comments, I’d love to hear them!

Evenflo

I was lucky enough to get a few donated items, including some of the Evenflo bottles with the new Proflow™ Nipples. If you’d like to read more about the evenflo bottles, or see them in action check out my review of the Bebek Collection here. The rectangular basket I purchased, and the blanket and photo frame were also donated. This gift basket is geared more toward a boy, but I have another in the works with similar items for a girl.

Looking to give back? Five easy ways to give without expectations

It is easier than you might think to give without expectation of anything in return. Here is a list of five easy things you can do to get you started today!

Let someone tell a story without feeling the need to one-up them or tell your own.
Forgive someone who wronged you because you have compassion for them, not because you know they’ll owe you.
Smile at strangers (without expecting it in return) , you might just end up making their day.
When interacting with people who provide a service to you (i.e. waiters, baristas, cashiers etc.) take the time to connect with them, ask them how they are while looking in their eyes (and really listen), if they have a name tag/badge address them using their name.
Assume the best when you’re tempted to suspect someone for no valid reason—even if they haven’t always given you the benefit of the doubt.