This post is part of a 30-day series called the 30 Steps Program to Financial Independence.
When I travel, I’m always blown away by how random people are willing to help me. Some have hosted me, some have fed me, and others have shown me the way. Without these kind strangers, my trips would have been less exciting, more expensive, and probably less meaningful.
The same thing applies to your daily life. You’ve got skills in something—whether it’s art, mechanics, cooking, or anything else. Use that talent to your advantage. Bake for the school fair or volunteer your time.
What do you get in return for all your dedication? It may not be obvious right away. But when you help someone, they’ll be so grateful that they’ll want to return the favor.
For instance, if I fix someone’s computer, they’re likely to talk about my skills to others. I might get a freelance job fixing computers for their friend’s company. I could even be recommended as the school’s IT person. Or maybe they’ll bake me a pie as a thank you. Either way, I receive something in return.
It doesn’t always have to be money. I’d feel awful asking friends for money when I help them move or paint their new place. But next time I need a place to stay in town, they might offer me their spare room, or they might lend me their car.
If you keep to yourself at home, you’ll miss out on the benefits of connecting with others. There’s a balance to everything—if you give, you will receive. I love to help my friends whenever I can, and since I have a lot of free time, I often do. But I don’t typically ask for favors.
So take a look around. Find something you’re good at and offer it to those in need. You never know what you might get in return.