How to be Happier...by Working for Free!

I'm sure many people will read a bit of what I have to say and quickly discard it. And why wouldn't they? Our lives are SO busy and there is SO much to do...how would I ever find time to VOLUNTEER? And how could that possible make me a happier person? The answers are simple and are two fold. First off, when you find something you are passionate about to volunteer your time to, as I have, the time creates itself. I love animals but cannot afford to make veterinary care my full time job so I have been volunteering at my local animal shelter as a dog walker! The time I take out of my schedule to spend an hour or two a week with these amazing creatures goes by so quickly and never seems to create a crimp in my schedule. In fact, I find myself watching less TV and spending less time fiddling around on the internet just to get in a few extra hours a week. When you heart is in it and it represents your passions...it is EASY to find a way to volunteer. Secondly, how can volunteering make ME a happier person? Anyone who says they volunteer simply out of the goodness of their heart is full of it! I'm sorry but its true. We could all be doing lots of selfish things with our time and volunteering isn't one of them. But what those who do volunteer and are honest about it will tell you that they get the BIGGEST sense of love and accomplishment out of their volunteer hours. I can't even begin to tell you how much these gorgeous, loving and appreciative pooches have done to lift my spirits! I came to help them and they ended up helping me. I am never as happy and as fulfilled all week as I am after my walks with the dogs at the PSPCA. To see the love and excitement in their eyes as I approach with a treat and a leash lets me know that God has given me this volunteer opportunity to enrich BOTH of our lives. Nothing you can buy will give you the same euphoric feeling! I fully realize it can be a diffcult thing to start. But look around you and see where your passions lie. Once you do that a few internet searches will provide you with a bevy of organizations that need your help. Make sure they have solid volunteer training classes so that you are aware of their policies and procedures and once you get the hang of it...bring a friend along to volunteer too! Spread the love and feel the warmth that only comes from working for free! There is no greater paycheck out there than refilling the coffers of your soul!