The Insiders On: Giving Back

Giving back — whether it be for a community, a friend, or a cause — is something that we as human beings are all capable of. It is a concept that helps the world move in a productive, positive manner as well as one of those essential rules that helps ensure that people are cared for and looked after. When we give back to others who have helped us, it offers us a chance to not only focus on people other than ourselves, but to actually make a concrete difference in another person's life.

The Aspie Insiders met today to discuss some of this and recount the ways that they have given back to the community or to those close to them. As we talked about our own experiences, it became clear that volunteering one's time or abilities can often lead to more opportunity. One of our members, Daniel, shared that he volunteered at a nearby library by teaching computer skills. Eventually, he was asked to join the library in a paid position. Another Insider, Jay, offers his skills as a DJ on a regular basis for many events that go on at the iCan House. While he has done this voluntarily, many of his paid gigs have come from recommendations through the iCan House.

Giving back doesn't have to happen with the expectation that one will get something in return though. One Insider mentioned the "pay it forward" idea from the movie of the same name. The concept is simple: if someone does a good deed for you, do a good deed for three other people. This "random acts of kindness" thing is something we talked about last week. It's simple, it's kind of impulsive, but it sticks. It's definitely a way to create more friendships, but it's also a way to change lives.

So how can you give back to others? Consider the following:

• Volunteering. Seriously, there are tons of places out there with specific needs that are looking for YOUR specific talents. Consider www.volunteermatch.org/ as a starting point. Or, simply look up some local organizations and make some calls. There are opportunities out there for you if you're looking to volunteer!
• "Paying It Forward." If you do something nice in return for a friend's kind act, the circle of compassion ends there. If, however, you do three good deeds for every one good deed done for you, then the cycle continues (especially if you encourage the people you help to "pay it forward" themselves). 
• Being a good listener. Giving back isn't just about what you can do for your community, it's also about what you can do for your friends. Friends aren't just for hanging out with — they're also there to listen to you when you have something heavy on your heart. For those close friends, consider opening up a conversation by simply asking "How are you doing?" If your friend responds with a quick "fine," press a little bit more: "No, really. How have things been? Good, bad, could be better? What's on your mind?"
• Use your talents and skills. What's better than doing the things you enjoy doing? Answer: doing what you like to do for someone else! Think about your own talents and abilities for just a moment. Chances are, there is someone that you know who could benefit from those skills that you have. Consider making a list. Consider what YOU can do!

HOW HAVE YOU GIVEN BACK TO EITHER THE COMMUNITY, YOUR FRIENDS, OR A CAUSE? AND HOW DID IT MAKE YOU FEEL? LET US KNOW IN THE COMMENTS SECTION BELOW!