IDEAS Framework Phase 5: Service

Finding purpose, fulfillment and happiness in our day job is absolutely possible.  It’s why we use the IDEAS Framework.  And although professional alignment is important in that journey, finding our connection to our community and living a life of service is just as necessary. 

I love the duality of being in the service of others (I call that b.i.t.s.o.o.) as a sacrifice of our time and energy, but also the wonderful feeling we get both physically and emotionally when we serve.  

“When people are altruistic and generous, it creates a response in the brain that taps into positive emotions,” explains Dr. Andrew Newberg, a neuroscientist at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health. “The brain also produces and releases neurotransmitters and hormones, such as dopamine and oxytocin, that help us feel happiness and pleasure.” (source). This is integral as we work to develop our whole self and become happier, healthier humans. 

So where do we start?  

I’ve learned over the years that interest in serving is like our unique personality traits.  Some might be interested in helping animals and kids, while others are excited about saving the environment or helping the unhoused.  We have to do that introspection (like we did in the first phase of the IDEAS Framework) to ask ourselves where we’re most interested in getting plugged in and helping out.

Once you’ve identified an area, do some Googling of “volunteer opportunities helping ‘your interest’ in ‘your city’.” An example would be “volunteer opportunities helping the elderly in Grand Rapids, MI.”

Find some opportunities that look interesting.  If you’re under 18, take an adult and schedule a time to go visit their work.  Ask questions.  Find out how you can get plugged in.

Likely, you have done some volunteer work and you know how wonderful that feels.  And just maybe, you love it so much, you might want to work for a non-profit and make it your day job.  How wonderful the world would be if you do.

Best of luck on the journey. Embrace the Adventure!

- Tyler