It’s human nature to desire a pat on the back or an “attaboy” when we do something noteworthy. Although, when the applause for our good works grows so loud, it can drown out the reason we started serving others in the first place. Doing good works without recognition still holds as much value, if not more, as the deeds we do that gain a roaring cheer from an audience.
How do we stay motivated and continue doing good for others when it sometimes feels unnoticed or undervalued? Here are a few ways to feel encouraged to Make Impact and do good without recognition.
Focus on your intention.
Before you begin your journey as a Changer, it’s a good idea to set your intentions. Starting with a focused mind will help you navigate different ways and opportunities to Make Impact.
Think about the purpose of your helpful actions and service by asking yourself a few questions:
- Who will benefit from my good deed?
- Why am I choosing to help this person?
- What if I never see the positive outcome from my act of service?
Once you settle these thoughts in your mind, you will become free to Make Impact without the desire of recognition or the fear that no one will notice. You’ve taken the time to realize that someone, even if just one person, will reap the benefits of your charitable act. You’ve settled within yourself your reason for choosing to help others, whether it be fulfilling a calling on your heart, or feeling at peace with yourself. And finally, you’ve resolved that it’s OK to never witness the impact or outcome of your service.
Know that your service still matters.
You’ve likely heard the saying, “If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?” Although this question causes us to pause and wonder, there’s still no doubt that just because someone was not around to hear it, does not mean it didn’t happen. Like doing good works without an audience, we can be confident that our work was carried out and there was a benefit to it.
If you bring a smile to one person’s face, then you’ve done your job. Don’t allow the thought of feeling unseen to discourage you from carrying out simple acts of kindness.
Here are a few good deeds that may not gain recognition but can brighten one person’s day:
- Carrying groceries inside for someone in need
- Mowing a neighbor’s yard
- Visiting someone who lives alone
- Feeding the less fortunate
- Donating money to a charity
- Complimenting someone
Understand that you may never know the impact.
Do you remember the kind words a teacher spoke to you in grade school? Can you recall that warm feeling you had when you received words of affirmation as a child? Have you saved a greeting card with thoughtful words from a friend?
If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, then you have your proof that quiet good deeds certainly Make Impact even if they never received recognition. The teacher who encouraged you, the person who affirmed you, or the writer of that card most likely never gained applause for the kindness they displayed. However, the result was meaningful. Remember your own experiences when you do good works that seem to go unnoticed. This will help spur you on as a Changer.
Go forth and Make Impact.
We hope that you feel encouraged as you go forth Making Impact in the lives of those around you. Know that your good works matter whether they gain the celebration of spectators or just the smile of one soul. And remember, you’re also gaining the benefit of every good work you do, as being kind and showing gratitude makes you feel good – no matter who may or may not be watching.