Uplifting Others Lifts Us, Too

Years ago, when I was in college, I joined a study group. My grades were good and I understood the material presented, but some of the other students were struggling. Someone asked me if I thought helping them would hold me back. I was surprised by the question.

I knew that studying with them would reinforce what I had learned and hopefully help them. I was grateful to be a part of it. It fostered a sense of camaraderie and lifted my spirits, knowing that none of us had to swim the overwhelming sea of school alone.

I don't know whether the study group helped them understand the intricacies of microbiology any better but it felt good to me to cheer them on. Who knows? Maybe I had the makings of a life coach before I even knew what that was.

One thing I have come to know about myself is that I enjoy helping others. I may not be able to help everyone, everywhere, all the time (good boundaries are important), but it is rewarding to aim for an outcome where we all win.

How about yourself? Is there an area of your life where you can extend a helping hand, where you can uplift others? You'll probably find yourself uplifted, too, in the process.