This post is part of a 30-day series called the 30 Steps Program to Financial Independence.
Giving back is something I’m still trying to master. In Europe, people donate much less to charity compared to the US. We usually give a small amount to big NGOs and feel awkward when neighbors knock on our doors, kids in tow, selling lottery tickets for school fundraisers. Unlike in the US, we don’t commonly donate to our alma mater or buy cookies from girl scouts.
I attended a Catholic school and was a girl scout, so I’ve done a lot of volunteering. I’m pretty generous with my time. If you need help fixing your computer, cooking, or learning something new, I’m usually happy to help. But when it comes to donating money, I’m more hesitant.
I’ve seen too many poorly managed projects that make me feel like my money isn’t being well-used. For instance, I don’t want to fund a minister’s lavish lifestyle, or contribute to a classmate’s volunteer trip to Africa where the money might not be effectively used. Very few charities have truly appealed to me.
One charity I do support helps girls in Southeast Asia get a free education. You can sponsor a girl, and all the funds go directly to her, with administrative costs covered separately. Another example is Charity:Water, where every dollar donated goes to the project. These are the types of organizations I prefer to support.
As we’ve discussed before, helping out in your community often means you’ll receive help in return. As someone who has been away from home for the past ten years, I realize what I miss out on by not giving. Since I’m not around to help my friends when they move or need a babysitter, I can’t really ask them for favors when I return. It’s hard to request someone’s time and effort if you haven’t been there for them.
Donating to your church might allow you to use the meeting room for your book club. Volunteering at a soup kitchen could help you make new friends, learn new skills, and engage in less expensive activities. It’s a win/win/win situation.
Give back and be grateful for what you have. Your contributions, whether small or large, can be a huge help to someone else. You don’t need to go all the way to Africa. Look around at your friends, family, and community. Is there someone who could use your help? By being grateful and giving back, you’ll make the world around you better and attract good, helpful people.
Giving back also brings you valuable skills, gifts, and life lessons. You’ll recognize how much you truly have and realize you need less than you think. This mindset will guide you toward greater financial independence.