Sometimes in life, you take center stage. This happens when you're in the midst of transitions that require a lot of self-work, self-thought, and self-direction, but at times with less change, there's a greater chance to put yourself away for a while in order to focus on others. Focusing on others brings a great sense of satisfaction as there is great joy in helping others and working for the common good. What does focus on others look like?
Needs
To focus on others means you think a lot about what others need to live good lives. Focus on others may mean cooking or cleaning for a friend in need, choosing a just-right gift, planting a garden, sending a few dollars to a cause or helping out at a local social agency. Taking some time to think about the needs that family members, friends, and the community in general has directs us towards doing for others in meaningful, positive ways.
Capacity
When it comes to taking care of others, we all have different capacities. Knowing what you have to give, helps you to support others well. We all bring different gifts and talents to life and that reality means that we'll likely focus on others in a variety of ways.
Routine
Good routines make giving more natural and positive. When your attention to others happens routinely you focus more on the good work than figuring out when and what to do.
Too much self-focus can diminish our experience of life and the strength of the communities we belong to. As with all things, a good balance is best. Onward.