You're Not The Boss Of Me

This is the time of year when people begin assessing their lives and, more importantly, their employment or lack thereof. If you are at a crossroads right now in your career, want to make a move and don't know how, or you are simply unemployed, then think about volunteering. I've always volunteered for things, especially when my children were little and I enjoyed the self satisfaction I gained. Now that my children are older, I wanted to find something that I could do that would enrich me in more ways than just financially. I contacted a local teaching hospital and got involved in their volunteer program. They trained me and placed me in a position which suited my skills and personality. Now I work with children (mostly cancer patients) and their families in the hospital's family resource center. Although I'm there one day a week and it is a volunteer position, I have learned so much about myself and others who are dealing with difficult situations. I have gained much more compassion, understanding and a better perspective about my own life. If you need to do the same, then think about volunteering. Of course you may not know where to begin and that's okay; most people don't know what to do first. There are lots of websites such as Volunteer Monster which can point you in the right direction. You can also research local hospitals and animal rescue organizations in your area. The possibilities are endless and the empowerment you gain from volunteering is immeasurable. It's a great way to help gain more control over your destiny while helping others and this is really the best time of year to give back in any way you can.