There’s arguably nothing more noble on Planet Earth than helping another human, or indeed, an animal. Showing kindness to other beings is rewarding in many ways, not least because we have the chance to make another life just a little brighter.
It’s getting incredibly close to that summer season – for some, it’s here already – which means it’s nearly holiday time. If you’ve yet to plan your holiday, and are looking for a last minute idea, I urge you to consider a volunteer holiday. It will add a sense of adventure to your trip, and there’s no greater holiday compliment than that.
It’s valuable experience to place on your CV This might seem a little selfish to some, but in actual fact, it’s a good thing to volunteer for experience. If you’re struggling for employment, then volunteering can show employers you’re dedicated and selfless. It also shows them you’re willing to travel to work, and you won’t hesitate to help others.
In any job, the skills can be taught. You can be taught how to be a better writer, you can be taught how to draw, you can be taught SEO tactics. What you can’t be taught, however, are the core skills any person should possess. Kindness, selflessness, commitment and spirit. A volunteer holiday demonstrates you possess these abilities, in spades.
It offers animal-lovers the opportunity of a lifetime
If you love animals, you’re often quite limited in your everyday life. Visiting a zoo is great, but it doesn’t really let you interact with nature. The animals are usually behind bars, and it’s frustrating. If you truly want to get up close and personal with everything the wilderness has to offer, then volunteering with animals is for you.
A provider such as The Great Projects offers you the opportunity to work with animals in a variety of situations. You can finally put your animal-loving nature to the test! Whether you like big cats, gorillas or sea creatures, you can interact with these animals in a way you never thought possible.
You’ll be more grateful for your home comforts
On your holiday, you’ll usually be visiting countries and villages that are less fortunate than us. No TV, no internet, no games console. No giant bed, no ready cooked food, no running water. When you return home, you’ll stop taking these things for granted and will be more appreciative of your luxuries and comforts.
You gain more patience and teamwork ability
Volunteering isn’t just a solo effort; it’s a group feat. You’ll meet like-minded individuals, fostering friendships that can last a lifetime. You’ll learn how to work as a team in an alien environment, building your patience along the way. Come rain or shine, you’ll see just what it takes to operate as part of a unit. You can place this on your CV, too!
You’ll be more willing to help others
Sometimes, we forget what people have done for us. Your parents, who cooked you food every night as a child and raised you. Your best friend, who visits all your sports matches and is always there for you to talk to. Your partner, who helps you through the more stressful times in life. Volunteering can help you gain perspective on the people around you, and can make you more prone to helping them in return. Sometimes, we take friendship for granted, but volunteering will make you more grateful.
Featured image source
Written by Jacqueline Chambers
Jacqueline Chambers is the founder of TGIFguide. She uses her innate skills as a natural “connector” to serve businesses, brands and individuals in the LA area and beyond.
_18_erect_an_exterior_wall_for_a_Southwest_Asian_Hut_at_Ka.jpg){kind=link}