It's Time to Make Time to Give

Wow, I found my last assignment pretty challenging! Remembering to look for things I could compliment people on was much harder than I thought it would be. It seems that I take all the positives for granted, and only notice the things that I disagree with, or that are annoying. That's a revelation. I'll continue looking, and try to catch people out in an act of kindness, or when they do well. Then, I'll remember to say something good about it.
I've been thinking about helping others in general. Time to do so has always been an issue for me. So this week I'm going to learn how to make time. Organise myself to achieve more in less time. Start small, put aside a few things someone else may want or need. Sort out some CD's and DVD's we no longer use. Give them away. Start with baby steps. Which will hopefully grow into a habit of using my time in a more productive way.

Giving - the non physical kind

I believe we all know someone who is always kind and a pleasure to be with. Often she or he is a quiet background type of person, but they somehow manage to make us feel better.
This week I will be concentrating on complimenting people on their positive actions or natural abilities. At first I thought it wasn't going to be much of a gift, but I'm planning on finding the good in everyone this week. Yes, even that annoying person/customer/acquaintance who whinges on the phone!
When was the last time you received a genuine acknowledgement of your actions or talents? Perhaps the ripple effect will begin with us all taking a minute to see something positive in others.

Is a small amount of giving enough?

Due to many unexpected commitments, I've had limited time to think about giving to others. Giving time to my family is always a high priority for me, and is given with love and no expectation (except maybe a thank you!)

On the weekend I managed to give away a few small items and passed on some books and magazines to other readers. I answered an email I normally would have ignored, giving some input and feedback to an unknown person.

So the question of how much is good enough popped into my mind. The short answer for today is:
If I've tried my best, then it's good enough. Within current circumstances we do what we can, and that is definitely good enough. No more beating myself up for not doing more!

Giving our money to local businesses

Small businesses are doing it tough in Australia. Increasing wages, taxes and expenses eat up profits, while business owners put in long hours trying to make a living. I believe it's time to support small business where possible. I visited our local hairdresser this week, and had the added bonus of good personalised service, plus a great haircut at a cheaper rate than the larger salons. I even walked there and back, saving a small amount of petrol and exercising at the same time.
I'll be looking for more local small businesses to support over the coming months.