Qualities of a Great Volunteer: Selflessness

To be a volunteer is to be selfless. Wouldn’t you agree? Volunteering requires the sacrifice of one’s time, energy and service without expecting anything in return. One of the greatest characteristics of a volunteer is their selflessness, and it does not go unnoticed.

Volunteering in a selfless manner can be challenging, though. Sometimes giving gets hard and the passion behind your volunteerism can wear thin. It’s in times like this when conflict and even safety accidents can occur.

Here are three tips to help keep you centered on selflessness during your volunteer trip:

1. Know your limits

Everybody has limits and those can often times be challenged on a volunteer trip. Take into consideration the amount of sleep you’re getting and the type of personal activities that rejuvenate you, such as a long walk or run, journaling, or reading a book. Depending on the length of your trip, you may want to carve out some time to yourself so you can refocus on your reasons for embarking on a volunteer journey.

2. Get inspired

Take some time to connect with the people you’re serving. Knowing their names and their stories will help to inspire you and remind you of why you chose to give up your time and energies to serve.

3. Encourage others

Choose to be a team member that helps to encourage others and keep a positive environment. Take it upon yourself to set a tone of positivity in all you do. When you do, your team and the community you’re serving will be all the more grateful for you.

What are your tips for staying selfless on a volunteer trip?

Want to learn about other traits of great volunteers? You can read about them here: Integrity, Energy, Creativity, Flexibility