How Volunteer Activities Build Self-Esteem

Volunteer activities build self-esteem, so volunteering your time is well worth considering. Volunteer activities offer benefits for you and your community, plus there are many options to consider. You can find something that's suited to your needs and interests, and you can make it work for you. Read this to find out how volunteering builds your self-esteem.

How Volunteer Activities Help Build Self-Esteem

Volunteering can help build self-esteem because:

• It gives you a sense of purpose. By volunteering, you are helping the community and making a difference to something other than yourself. Volunteering gives you something meaningful to be doing, and it is empowering to be doing something that really does matter.
• It’s an opportunity for people interaction. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and practice social interaction. It doesn’t matter whether you interact with one person or a group of people. Volunteering is particularly beneficial if you’re feeling isolated, want to build your social skills or build your confidence around people. It’s also an opportunity to make new, real friends.
• It takes the focus away from yourself. Focusing on something else distracts your mind from the negative thoughts about yourself. Being in the outside world also helps to give you a sense of perspective.
• It helps with your sense of belonging. When you volunteer, people will generally be happy to have you around. Additionally, volunteering in a team or group can create an even stronger sense of belonging and worthiness.
• You can learn new skills and gain experience. It’s empowering to learn something new, and you could gain valuable skills to use elsewhere. For example, volunteering might provide you with work experience and help get you into the work force. It’s also an opportunity to try out a new hobby or activity.
• It can give you a sense of achievement. Volunteering is a wonderful thing to do and an achievement in itself. Additionally, volunteering can take you outside of your comfort zone and gives you an opportunity to face your fears. For example, if you fear social interaction or have social anxiety, volunteering is a way to practice being around people.
• It can be fun and can give you good feelings. There are so many activities that you can do and volunteering can be very rewarding. Good feelings lift your mood and help with your mental health.

Volunteering is worthwhile considering, especially when you're struggling with self-esteem and feeling good about yourself. I have personally tried it and found it to be a very rewarding experience. I highly recommend volunteering as a way to build self-esteem.

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