We were made for connection. Human to human. So, it’s no surprise that serving each other cultivates togetherness, happiness, and a sense of belonging. But how do we go about living (and loving) a life of service in a way that fits into our busy lives? Our secret is to serve in simple ways, one day at a time. 

Loving Your Life of Service 

Does it feel intimidating to think about “living a life of service”? We hope not … but just to ease your mind, we’re sharing  how to LOVE serving. And to start us off, check out these quotes on service and well-being to inspire you! 

Serve with a grateful heart. 

Living a life of service is more than going through the motions and checking off a box on your “being a good human” to-do list. If you’re not operating with a grateful heart, you’ll likely feel that serving is more of an obligation than it is a gift for both you and the person or cause you’re serving. 

Fill up your cup so you can serve others well. 

You might be surprised to hear that it’s not easy serving others if you don’t serve yourself first. This doesn’t mean that you’re being selfish or greedy because when it comes to living a life of service, you don’t want to experience burn out. 

You’ve heard it before … “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” It’s so true. And if you need ideas on how to refill your emotional cup, check out this Harvard Health™ blog post on just that. 

You don’t have to say “yes” to everything. 

Speaking of pouring out of an empty cup, it’s important to create and stick to boundaries when it comes to serving others. You can’t say “yes” to everything! Protect your time and energy. There are ways to serve  in your everyday life (as we’ll show you below) so that you can impact lives without exhausting your resources. 

Ways to Live a Life of Service 

Although there are many ways to serve, we’re sharing three ways: serving in your everyday life, serving your friends and family, and serving in your community. 

Serve in your everyday life. 

Every day is a new chance to serve those around you in simple ways. Here are just a few: 

• Help someone with their grocery cart. 
• Bake some goodies for your neighbors. 
• Mow your neighbor’s lawn. 
• Tip your barista. 
• Hold the door for a stranger (give them a nice big smile while you’re at it). 

Serve your friends and family. 

When we think of serving others, oftentimes we think of charity or community service, but living a life of service also includes your friends and family. Here are ways to serve them regularly: 

• Send an encouraging handwritten message to someone. 
• Make quality time with your people a priority. 
• Support the dreams and ambitions of your friends and family. 
• Take a friend out to coffee. 
• Host a dinner party for some friends. 
• Cheer for your spouse, kids, or any other family you have. Be their #1 fan. 

Serve in your community. 

Serving is more about giving your time rather than your money. There are many low-cost ways to get involved in your community. Check out these ideas: 

• Start or participate in a community garden. 
• Take baked goods or treats to your local police or fire station. 
• Pick up trash around your neighborhood. 
• Donate clothes, games, or toys to your local foster system or nursing homes. 
• Get involved in local charities or serve at a food bank/soup kitchen. 
• Keep personal hygiene essentials in your car to give to someone in need. 

Make a Lasting Impact 

You have the ability to be a difference maker. And the best part is, living a life of service gives back to you. Whether you intend it to or not, serving others is gratifying and fulfilling. We hope you’ve been inspired to serve in big and small ways. 

Service is a core value of the Olynyk family. We truly believe that life is about connecting with others. To learn more about our values, check out our blog on “Everyday Ways to Be a Difference Maker.”