7 Amazing Ways to Be Generous without Actually Spending Money ...
A little generosity can go a long way, and fortunately there are ways to be generous without spending money. Maybe a friend or relative has always been there for you, and you feel compelled to give back in some way. Being generous doesn't have to involve money, which is good news if you don't have a lot of it. Here are seven amazing ways to be generous without actually spending money.
1. Babysit Someone's Kids
If you're looking for ways to be generous without spending money, maybe you can babysit a friend or relative's kid for an evening or weekend. This can give the parents a much needed break to do whatever they want – have a date night, run errands or rest. You don't charge a dime for your services and agree to show the kids a good time.
2. Offer to Clean Someone's House
Maybe you know someone who's extremely busy or ill and unable to clean or organize their own home. If you have a knack for cleaning or organization, offer your services. Most people won't ask for this type of help, but when offered, they'll jump at the opportunity. This little gesture can make someone's day and organize their life.
3. Run Errands
There simply isn't enough time in the day. Between family, work, school and other personal obligations, most people could use a personal assistant. But unfortunately, this service comes with a price. If you want to be generous without actually spending money, offer to be someone's assistant for the day. You can help out with the kids, help around their house or run personal errands. It's an excellent way to show your appreciation to someone when unable to give an actual gift.
4. Give Advice
Sometimes, a piece of advice can go along way. For example, maybe you're financially savvy and know of several tricks and tips to improve one's money. If you want to be generous, you might give a friend or relative a lesson in personal finances. Of course, any advice given should be solicited by the other person and you shouldn't cross boundaries.
5. Cook Dinner
Do you want to show someone how much you appreciate them? If you can't spend money on gifts, maybe you can prepare a meal for the person. And if this is a stretch, baking a cake, muffins or cookies is another way to be generous. The other person will definitely appreciate your efforts, especially if you're an excellent cook or you're preparing a dish they love.
6. Donate
Donating is one of the best ways to be generous without spending money. And there are several ways to donate. You can give personal items to your favorite organization; or before donating these items, call up a friend or relative to see if they'll be interested. Your trash can easily become someone else's treasure, and your generosity won't go unnoticed.
7. Cash in Rewards for Gift Cards
If you have a credit card with a rewards program, you might have enough reward points to redeem for a gift card. You can give someone a gift card to a restaurant, retail store, etc.
Some people think they have to spend money to be generous, but this isn't the case. It's really the little and simple things that count the most -- and of course, the thought behind the gesture. What are other ways to be generous without spending money?