In today’s fast-paced and often self-centered society, it’s easy to overlook the importance of being helpful to those around us. However, acts of kindness and assistance not only benefit the recipients but can also create a domino effect of goodwill and positivity. If you’re looking to make a difference in your community or simply improve your personal relationships, consider these 13 ways to be helpful.

1. Offer a listening ear: Sometimes, all someone needs is a friend who will listen and empathize with their problems. Offering support and understanding can go a long way in helping someone feel better.

2. Volunteer: Nonprofit organizations are always in need of volunteers to donate their time and skills. Whether you choose to help at a homeless shelter, animal rescue, or after-school program, your efforts will make a substantial impact.

3. Share your expertise: If you possess knowledge or skills in a certain area, consider sharing that expertise with others who could benefit from it. This could be as simple as assisting a coworker with a project or teaching a friend how to cook.

4. Run errands for someone in need: If you know someone who has difficulty getting around due to age, illness, or disability, offer to run errands for them. Picking up groceries or medication can provide much-needed relief for individuals who struggle with these tasks.

5. Cook or bake for others: Preparing meals or baked goods for friends, family, or neighbors can bring comfort and joy during difficult times or special occasions.

6. Offer emotional support: There are countless individuals facing challenging circumstances who can benefit from your emotional support. Reach out and offer genuine care, concern, and encouragement.

7. Help with household chores: For someone going through difficulties such as illness or grief, keeping up with household chores can be overwhelming. Help alleviate the burden by assisting with cleaning, laundry, or yard work.

8. Be patient and understanding: Sometimes, being helpful means simply demonstrating patience and understanding when someone is going through a tough time or is struggling with a task.

9. Share information: If you come across valuable articles, resources, or online events related to someone’s interests or needs, pass the information along to them.

10. Pay it forward: Have you ever been the recipient of a random act of kindness? Consider paying it forward by doing something nice for a stranger, such as buying their morning coffee or returning their lost item.

11. Practice forgiveness: Forgiving those who have wronged you can not only help them but also contribute to your own mental and emotional wellbeing.

12. Encourage others to seek help: If you know someone who is struggling with a personal issue that requires professional assistance, gently encourage them to seek help from appropriate services or experts.

13. Be a good friend: Above all else, being a helpful person means developing meaningful connections and strong friendships built on trust, support, and reliability. Dedicate time to fostering these relationships and offering your help when needed.

In conclusion, embracing any of these 13 ways to be helpful can create ripples of kindness throughout your circle of friends and community. Whether you opt for grand gestures or small acts of service, remember that consistently prioritizing the needs of others will positively impact both you and the people around you.