Most people think of generosity in terms of money, but you would also think of it in terms of your time. If there's a cause that is dear to your heart - find a way to give of your time as well as donate money. Many non-profit organizations and schools are starved for talented, innovative, resourceful people who want to share what they have learn with others who need it most.
About six years ago, I went on this "leadership journey" with a group of young Latino professionals, since graduating I've found that one of the things I loved most about the experience which I rediscovered was volunteering my time to my community. Over the years, I've always participated in letter writing campaigns and I've always given money to various causes, but I never had the "time" or so I thought to give of myself.
It's surprising how you find the time to do those things that are most important to you... and I felt great afterwards knowing that I helped make the world a better place. So when I hear friends and colleagues say they don't have time to volunteer I can't help but shake my head. Since starting my leadership development certificate with Latino Partnership Leadership Institute, I've held two jobs and have been a part-time student, I've found the time to be on three board, two committees, mentored three girls, get on the dean's list, get a promotion at work, and still spend time with my four kids and three grandkids... so really YOU don't have time? Did I mention, start my own blog???
If you want to see what's important to you, what are your priorities - look at how you spend your time! In leadership development one of the exercises to help "clarify your values" is to take a look at your calendar and see our you spend your time. Don't have one? Take out a piece of paper and write down all of the times you've done this week, for example went to work, went to school, studied for my mid-terms, had Friday night dinner with the kids, went to a community meeting, composed a new blog entry, etc.
I know some of you are saying, but I don't have any skills I can share - that's a bunch of hot air! Of course you have something to share, we all have something to share, never, ever, ever think that you have too little to give to others. If you can read this blog, you can read a book to a child, if you know how to type - you can help a non-profit type their newsletter, if you can answer a phone (and I'd be hard pressed to find somebody who can't answer a phone) you can volunteer to answer phones on a domestic violence or run-away hotline or for a PBS telethon.
The point is, you always have enough to share... so my question to you is: What are you waiting for?
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