Heal Yourself By Helping Others
“Sometimes, the best way to solve your own problems is to help someone else.”
― Uncle Iroh, Avatar: The Last Airbender
Although this quote was taken from a fictional character, it is very real.
In pursuing personal healing and growth, there is a really effective option that people don’t usually think about—serving others.
Yup, you read that right. But now, you might be thinking…
“What? I’m here to help myself. Why would I need to think about others right now?”
And while that is valid, please hear us out. Helping others can aid your personal growth in more ways than expected. And if you’re not convinced, here are five compelling ways to extend a helping hand to catalyze your healing and self-discovery.
Shifting Your Focus Outward
When we turn our attention to the needs of others, we shift the focus from our own challenges to the well-being of those around us.
This new perspective offers a reprieve from personal struggles and fosters a sense of purpose in improving the outlook of others.
Creating Deep Connections
Engaging in acts of service establishes deep, meaningful connections with other people.
Recognizing shared vulnerabilities and strengths fosters a sense of interconnectedness. These connections, built on empathy and shared experiences, form a supportive network that is crucial to the healing process.
Cultivating Empathy
Service is a gateway to developing empathy—an ability to understand and share the feelings of others. As we actively involve ourselves in helping others overcome their challenges, we deepen our understanding of human struggles.
This heightened empathy becomes a powerful force for healing for ourselves and those we serve.
Finding Fulfillment in Contribution
Contributing to the well-being of others generates a profound sense of fulfillment.
Acts of service, whether big or small, positively impact the lives of those we touch. This fulfillment becomes a source of joy and satisfaction, counteracting negative emotions and fostering a positive outlook.
Gaining a Sense of Empowerment
Individuals often discover a renewed sense of agency and control in serving others. By actively making a difference in someone else’s life, we regain a sense of empowerment that might have been compromised during challenging times.
Final Word
So there you go. Are you now convinced that being of service can eventually help you improve yourself in various aspects?
By being more generous when it comes to lending a hand, you can establish deeper connections, develop more empathy, and become a more empowered individual, among other reasons.
And not only that. When you get used to helping others, you will undoubtedly find yourself on the path to living a purpose-driven life—something that all of us should have as our end goal.
Sources:
https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/8553923-sometimes-the-best-way-to-solve-your-own-problems-is
https://www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com/news/healing-by-helping-other-people-4-points-to-ponder/
