Be the Ladybug: How to help others
How to help
I was talking to somebody the other day about the impact we make on other people by just being nice. We talked about how sometimes the smallest act of kindness can even prevent suicide. The person I was talking to asked, “What if that person actually didn’t want to die, but was just looking for a reason, any reason to live. . . like a ladybug landing on their arm, to show them that they should keep living.” It is important to remember that what may seem insignificant to you may be the only good thing that someone sees in their day. This can be just enough to give them the strength to keep going.
So, what can you do to make a positive impact? You can start by “being the ladybug” – or any other type of kindness that resonates with you. Whether it’s saying hello to someone, letting an angry driver go ahead of you with a wave, holding the door open a little longer, or returning a lost wallet with all its contents, these small acts can make a big difference in for somebody having a bad day.
Even if you don’t know if your actions will make a difference or not, it is still worth doing. You will feel better knowing that you have done something that has the potential to help someone else feel a little better. At the very least, it will make you feel better too.
Learn more about Counseling in Austin.
Jonathan F. Anderson, LPC-s has worked in the helping profession since he started college in 1990. After completing his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas, Austin in 1994, he attended the highly-regarded University of Minnesota to earn his Master’s degree in 1997. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor and is recognized as a Board Approved Supervisor by the State of Texas Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. Jonathan has completed Level-2 of the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling, and in 1998 received training from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation in Advanced Critical Incident Stress Management & Debriefing. To learn more about Jonathan’s practice, click here: Jonathan F. Anderson, LPC-s.
