100 Ways to Serve Others
God, Success February 2nd, 2010I’ve continued to be inspired by people’s 100 lists and you’ve probably seen many that I’ve highlighted in recent resource lists. Dragos wrote one that triggered me to write another with his excellent post on 100 tips to write huge lists. This list is on my favorite subject and while the length of these lists makes them quite a challenge to make, this particular subject is one I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about and writing goals in so its a great topic for me to tackle in a list. The items were actually fairly easy to come up for me without any research or added web surfing, but the real effort was then in putting a short description or example for each.
Anyway, I’m thrilled to have this list completed and can’t wait to experience and see the results of personally doing every single one on the list. That is the challenge I made for myself and I hope you challenge yourself with some or all of these items as well. This is also my largest single article ever and was awesome to create! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did writing it. I’d love if you could help to share it as well, thanks.
1. Smile
This is a great habit to develop to start each and every day and to practice whenever you have the chance. The great thing is that smiling at others is easy and takes nothing but a little effort. Nearly everyone responds to a smile and it makes you and the other person feel better immediately.
2. Hold or Get the Door for Someone
Simple things are a great way to serve others and these little things can really make a great difference. Stop and hold the door for someone whenever you get a chance and let someone go in front of you. This sends a strong message and you can really bump it up by combining this with #1, a great smile with the door offer.
3. Help someone get where they want to be
I mean when it comes to transportation or as a physical destination. There are always friends, colleagues and family needing a ride somewhere or a pickup from a trip, vacation or event. Perhaps it’s to be a designated driver for a group of friends. Simply offer to help get them there where they want to be.
4. Buy someone lunch
Buying lunch is not that expensive, as many people do it everyday and when you have an opportunity when you are getting or eating lunch with someone, simply buy their lunch as well as yours. Don’t offer, don’t tell them, just do it and don’t make a big deal about it. Don’t say they can get the next one, don’t say they’d do it for you, just buy them lunch and leave it at that.
5. Pick up a hitch hiker
This one scares a lot of people and I will certainly include myself in that group. However, it’s a great way to serve others and is a lot safer than we tend to think or what we are often taught about strangers. It is also very safe if you think about where and when it is OK to pick up a hitch hiker and what people you want to pick up. Often you can offer someone (or a stranger a ride) when they are not trying to hitch hike and this is very safe.
6. Provide Road Side Assistance
People have car trouble all the time. I’m sure you have at one point as well. Whether its changing a tire, jumping a battery or calling for an expert for a tow. Stopping to help someone can make a tremendous impact on someone who is struggling on the side of the road. This is especially true with accidents and is sad when people leave in a hurry when they should be stopping to help and offer a testimony to ensure people are not taken advantage of.
Little things make a big difference and little things for a neighbor can turn an unknown neighbor into a great friend. Mowing a lawn or raking some leaves only takes a few minutes to do, a little more than your own yard.  It looks better when lawns are mowed at the same time and while you shouldn’t expect it, often such favors will be returned. I’ve experienced this one many times.
8. Invite someone over for dinner
An easy way to develop relationships is to have a meal together and so inviting someone over for dinner is a great way to serve them and that relationship.
9. Give a gift certificate
I love giving people living on the street gift certificates. Gift cards for food or stores for basic needs like clothing you can buy pretty much anywhere and then instead of giving money to someone who you have no idea how they might spend it, you can give them something that they have to use for their basic needs. I’ve given grocery store $20 gift cards to peddlers and they are always just thrilled getting it and it makes it easier for me knowing they can’t just turn around the corner and spend it on drugs or alcohol (you can’t buy alcohol in grocery stores here in Canada).
10. Help someone achieve a goal
People often struggle achieving their goals and every one of us can use help in some way. Ask people about their goals and do what you can to help them achieve it. Perhaps you make a suggestion of where to start or some person to refer, a course or knowledge or some personal tutoring or action to help them with, whatever it is, helping people achieve their goals is a wonderful way to serve others.
11. Share your dreams with someone
The more you think about your dreams and share them with others, the more likely they are to come true and for you to spend time on them. So, sharing your dreams with someone and them sharing theirs in return, helps make those dreams more likely and timely.
12. Shovel snow from more than your own walks
If you live in a subzero climate with snow, shoveling the walks can be a regular event in the winter months. Take a few minutes and shovel the walks for your neighbors or a local bus stop, or public pathway.
13. Write an article that helps people
This is an easy one for bloggers as it’s a regular event. For non-bloggers however, writing is not always seen as a way to help people, but it’s incredibly helpful. Pick a subject you know well and write an article about it and share it with people you know.
14. Teach something specific that you know about
Take writing one step further and teach someone something you know in person. Take the time to help them learn it, to explain it and to have them learn from you. Teaching is a great way to serve others and we all have an opportunity to teach others in areas we already have learned.
15. Listen intently in conversation
Conversations and communication can be difficult at times and in order to make it work and to serve others in communication is to truly listen and to listen intently. Others will feel values that you took the time to listen and they were actually paid full attention and that you cared enough to hear them out.
16. Always let others speak before you
Another angle of communication is in when you speak and when others speak. To give to others and serve them in your communication, let them speak first and present their ideas. Often the people who speak first are the ones credited with an idea (if you had the same idea to share as well) and it’s great to allow that credit and attention to be paid on someone else. It’s a wonderful way to serve someone else when you know they had the same idea as you, but instead of stating that, you can simply tell them, “That is a great idea!”.
17. Volunteer in your community
This likely came to mind when you first thought about serving others and it’s a classic example of course. There are many ways to do this through programs, organizations, clubs, groups, community associations and any other activities in your community. There are often websites and directories for connecting volunteers and placements that would be good for them. Do some searching around your community.
18. Host a homeless person overnight in your home
It’s sad that this is such a scary thing for people image themselves doing but what better way to serve others than to provide the most basic of needs for someone who really needs it. There are many incredibly deserving and kind homeless people who simply can’t afford a home in our rich nations even though they have a job and family. Helping these people out and getting to know them a little and provide some assistance is a great way to serve others.
19. Donate money to a charity
Pick the charity you like, or many and set aside some money to give to them. The best way to give is to set it up to be an automatic withdrawal so that the charity knows they can count on that monthly contribution and so that you make sure you do your giving before other spending. We all spend too much anyway.
20. Pick up loose garbage
Our cities are for the most part, quite disgusting. There is garbage everywhere you go and it will never get cleaned up without people seeing the difference and by helping to pick it up. Do what you can and stop to pick up some garbage instead of walking over it for a change. I especially like to do this when I go out into the wilderness for a hike or ride. I always come home with more than I went out with since I make sure I take a moment to notice and to pick up someone’s garbage left behind.
21. Be a mentor to someone
Everyone needs help to achieve their dreams and goals in life and mentor ship is an excellent way of providing that needed help, encouragement and guidance required. Look for opportunities to mentor people and provide that benefit to someone else as a way to serve.
22. Give away your old stuff
I said it above and I’ll say it again. We all have too much stuff. Do a favor for people in need and give away some of the things you no longer need or use or wear. Others would be happy to have it and it will help you simplify your life and enjoy your time more. Find a few locations that you can drop off your stuff or call an organization that collects your goods to redistribute to those in need.
23. Buy someone a book
If you have explored LearnThis much, you know that I love books. Well do someone a service and buy them a book to enjoy as well. Don’t buy them a book though that YOU would enjoy, buy them a book that THEY will enjoy.
24. Be genuine with your apologies
Put some sincerity into your apologies and be genuine when you do make a mistake. Own up to it and make the appropriate apology in person and in a serious tone.
25. Bring baked goods to work
No matter where you work and if you work with people, people love food. Bringing in some baked goods or snacks is always appreciated. You can do this with your colleagues or clients, just try to ensure the food is something most can enjoy and its best to find something that is not just sugar or unhealthy. There are many great foods to share that are healthy as well and people do enjoy.
26. Compliment someone
Serving others has to be about them. Compliments are a great way for you to focus something positive on them and brighten their day. Find something you can be genuine about and give them the compliment with smile and positive approach.
27. Help to organize charity event
Charities and non-profit organizations struggle to get people to commit to planning an event or attending a volunteer effort. You can help out the organization AND the people it is serving if you help to run the charity or a charity event.
28. Be sportsmanlike on sports teams
Sports involve a lot of different personalities and sometimes emotions. Playing very sportsmanlike and keeping your cool even when others do not, serves everyone playing as an example and often the source of calm for the rest of a team. Do your best to stay calm, play with sportsmanlike conduct and encourage fair and fun play over competition and winning.
29. Encourage people
I just mentioned this for sports above but its possible in all areas of life. You have endless opportunities to encourage people to do what they love, follow their dreams, achieve their goals and do the things they enjoy doing. Encourage positive behavior and fun actions through you day, you will enjoy it more, help others recognize those same things and hopefully, keep more of those actions coming as a result in the future.
30. Give books you’ve read away
Not many people read all the books they have, let alone read them more than once. If you have books you know you will not read away keep them in mind and anyone interested in that subject, simply give them that book. I absolutely receiving free books from others and always enjoy reading them as I know there is someone to have a conversation then with about that book.
31. Be a friend to those who don’t deserve it
Friendship is often thought to be something that is earned. Well serving others you not looking for what others earn, you are simply serving others. Extend the offer of friendship to someone who doesn’t seem like they deserve it. Perhaps they have made some bad choices in life, hurt you in the past or stuck in a difficult set of habits to break. The best thing for them is a true friend and it’s a great way to serve if you can provide that.
32. Support mission and aid workers
There is constantly aid work going on around the world and traveling missionaries or support works in developing nations and disaster zones and they need support. You can support them with funds, letters, time, gifts or any combination of those. Spread the word as well and help these organizations grow, they are themselves doing a great service that deserves more support.
33. Share your creativity
Creativity sparks new ideas in others and ideas trigger change, growth and hope. Sharing your creativity with others serves these same results and is a great way to connect with people as well.
34. Promote someone else’s idea
We all have our own ideas but how often do you reinforce and encourage someone else’s idea. Just one more way to serve and build others up.
35. Tell someone they are your friend
It’s funny how we don’t know how to classify as a friend or not. Everyone has a different definition of this, but we all like to hear that someone is our friend when we do finally hear it. Make it obvious if you are around someone new or you just don’t really know if they consider you a friend or not, to specifically say it. Fit it into a sentence or an introduction or just a comment, like it’s great to do stuff like this with friends, too.
36. Introduce a friend to someone they don’t know
Friends make connecting with other people much easier and if you ensure you always introduce your friends to other people you know, it builds new connections and make more people feel welcome in a conversation. It’s never fun to be the third wheel not knowing someone in the group so make sure you always introduce people to each other.
37. Talk to people at parties who look “out of place”
On the theme of meeting people and introducing people, often you can serve others by simply approaching them and introducing yourself. It only takes a minute and can make a new person or someone who is uncomfortable or out of place to feel a lot better. Invite them over into a group you are with, or just spend a few minutes to ask them questions and help them feel more comfortable.
38. Stay calm and don’t react with arguments
Arguments are a sure way to cause problems and staying calm may not be the easier thing to do (especially if you are under attack), but it is the best way to serve others both in the argument and seeing it indirectly. If you can stay calm and not make the situation any worse, then you do everyone a service including yourself from not reacting negatively.
39. Support your loved ones no matter what
We often put higher expectations and judgments on those we love instead of accepting thing for who they are and their decisions. There is nothing wrong with hoping for them to change or break away from destructive habits or decisions but there is a point at which you simply must support them as well if they make decisions or choices that you don’t agree with. Isn’t that the best way to show you love them anyway?
40. Share successes
People learn from the success of others and so sharing both your successes and the successes of others with more people is an easy way for everyone to learn from those experiences.
41. Practice appreciative inquiry and positive dialog
Appreciative inquiry has so many benefits it’s a wonderful way to help people feel included, listened to, engaged with and ultimately it’s a way to bring the best out of people and what they are involved in doing. I strongly believe in this one as it has such a focus on others and bringing out the best in people it is really an exceptional way to serve others.
42. Pay for the stranger’s coffee behind you in line
Head on through the drive through or even at a till in person and tell the cashier you would like to pay for that other person’s purchase as well. You will quite likely surprise the cashier and the other person with such a simple act of kindness.
43. Offer your seat on the bus / train
Public transport is often quite crowded and its sad how selfish people seem to be when onboard. Look for a chance to offer your seat or a helping hand to someone traveling with extra bags, children or perhaps a disability.
44. Operate a blog and give away great content
This is obvious one for me and I’m sure many of my readers here as well. Blogging really is about serving others once you start writing for what your readers want, and not what you want yourself. The best blogs exist because of the authors wanting to provide value and great content. There is much to learn from blogging and the best part by far, is the way it serves others and connects you with people.
45. Take on a project as a DIY with a friend
Do-it-yourself (DIY) has many benefits and when you can offer to help a friend take on a project you are doing a great service for them. Your help, support and perhaps expertise will bring you together to accomplish something and enjoy it when its done.
46. Accept others ideas without immediately judging them
It’s easy to be critical at times, especially if we think we have our own better idea. Do a service to others and don’t discount or be negative towards their ideas. Let them stand on their own and don’t immediately judge them.
47. Put and keep your cell phone out of site in conversation
This is a huge pet peeve of mine and I’ll never do it to others. If you are in a conversation with someone, give them your full attention, face them and put your dang phone away. It sends a poor message to be playing with your phone or answering it in the middle of a conversation. You can’t serve someone when sending them a message that whoever might be calling is clearly more important.
48. Inspire others
This is a whole list on its own for ways to do this but we do all have things we are passionate about and enjoy. Spread that passion and look to spark inspiration in others in sharing those.
49. Share appreciation aloud
People rarely feel appreciated enough even though it is incredibly easy to do. Practice expressing what you appreciate about someone and do it aloud so they hear it and perhaps others will hear the same, share more or learn from you to do the same.
50. Share gratitude in life
Similar to appreciation to others, gratitude is usually expressed towards circumstances, gifts and talents and life in general. Some show gratitude to God, to others or to their environment. Be grateful for what you have, recognize the abundance you have to experience and share that gratitude with others. Spreading gratitude and recognizing it is definitely a way to serve others.
51. Demonstrate perseverance
There are many ways to demonstrate perseverance but I’m thinking more specifically in the ways you are already serving others. Taking items on this list and persevering to keep them happening, to keep on practicing, to keep on serving.
52. Make moral decisions
Moral decisions are ones that are considered to be right. Moral decisions serve the general good and allow you to serve by making choices based on what is right and good. We all have a moral grounding as human beings and it’s how we are created and how we think at the deepest fundamental levels. Using that moral compass for our decisions serves others in these good decisions.
53. Live ethically
Ethical living has some parallels with moral living but perhaps more from the human defined perspective, and not human nature. Ethics are largely defined by our cultures and society and so making that system stable and effective requires that we follow ethics and make decisions that take society into mind and use that in the way we live. It’s all about what is right for many, a great way to serve others.
54. Share your mistakes with others
Mistakes are a wonderful way to learn and something that can easily be taught to others if shared. Examine your mistakes and do more than learn from them yourself, share them with others. You can gain a lot of trust in sharing mistakes to help others learn from those actions before they make the same mistakes.
55. Clap and cheer aloud
You often have a chance to clap for someone or even cheer for them at conferences, events or sports activities. What about in meetings, daily work or even at home around the house? Take a moment to recognize others and serve them by showing your appreciation for a job well done, an accomplishment or for taking on a new adventure. Show them by clapping for them or cheering. Bring others into the habit and use it often. We do this in my workplace very often in meetings, after hearing good news or any accomplishment that is shared with a group. The cheers and clapping always bring on a smile and serves everyone involved.
56. Tell me about yourself
Tell me about yourself or introduce yourself are pretty common questions in interview and sometimes in business meetings with new clients or with new employees and colleagues. Use this chance to share your values and principles instead of just your usual background like where you work, your educational background or where you live. Tell someone what you value most, why and what principles you follow in all of your life. This has much more significance, surprises people so gets remembered and creates a faster stronger relationship than typical introductions.
57. Magnify someone’s kindness
Visit BondChristian.com and read about magnifying someone’s kindness and then go do it. Marshall wrote, “So how do you magnify someone’s kindness? You truly appreciate it. You accept it – you accept that in that moment, you are depending on someone else, that you really do need someone else.”
58. Be willing to describe your vulnerabilities
Vulnerability exposes oneself and is an catalyst to building trust. When people see vulnerabilities, they relate quickly and connect at a stronger level which immediate builds trust with that person. Vulnerabilities also humble oneself which leads to…
59. Be humble
There are many ways to be humble, not just in exposing vulnerabilities. Giving credit to others, taking blame, talking about others not yourself, and avoiding the temptation to be right are all great ways to be humble. Humility is goes hand in hand with serving others from a character trait perspective and the focus on others is what allows humility to surface.
60. Choose to be happy
Happiness is not something you seek, it’s not something you can find and its not something you can gain based on “if only…”, “when this…” and “as soon as this happens…” thinking. Happiness is something you must believe you can have and you then have to choose to be happy. You can be happy with hardship and suffering all around you and under terrible circumstances in your life if you truly believe you have that choice. For all those that need outside influences to be happy, you can provide that service and choose to be happy and to be an example of happiness for those around you regardless of the circumstances.
61. Admit your faith and beliefs
How can you possibly serve others if you do not share or admit your faith and beliefs with them?  Wouldn’t that be deceiving them, hiding things from them or even lying to them if you take it too far in fear of telling them? If you truly have faith and believe in it, you HAVE TO also believe in the value of sharing it. Yes, there are good times for this and perhaps some bad times, but you must be willing to admit your faith and belief systems.
62. Ask open ended questions
Good conversations depends a lot on questions and interaction between people. You can give control of a conversation and draw someone into being more expressive with you by asking open ended questions that allow them freedom to respond with more of their thoughts and not just a yes or no answer.
63. Be a change agent
We need to change through life or we become complacent and we die within our trapped lives. Change prevents that and allows people to grow and develop. Obviously personal development is connected deeply to change and if you see the value in it, serving others should involve being a change agent to help make changes happen in your life, those around you and your community for the better lives of all.
64. Avoid and guard against gossip
Gossip can be disastrous to friendships, careers and other people’s lives. Learning to avoid gossip and guard against it both for yourself and for others is a valuable service to engage in.
65. Live with purpose
Purpose is difficult to understand if you don’t know your purpose yet. It becomes the driving force in your life and gives you the energy to do all that you do in place of all the distractions and selfish acts that tend to keep us from our ultimate purpose. I’ve learned that people who believe they know there purpose rarely claim a selfish one and its most often one that has a betterment for others at some level in it. I believe we all have this created in us and so living with purpose in some way involves serving others. I certainly know that’s in my purpose.
66. Express your passions
Passions expose a positive attitude, joy and excitement from a person when they are expressed, or at least more so than normal topics. This excitement rubs off on others and in turn help to encourage them to be excited or to express their own passions as well.
67. Ask more questions than you answer
Asking questions shows interest in others and makes them feel more comfortable and connected in conversations. Use questions to serve others.
68. Hand write a personal thank you card
Hand written cards and especially thank you cards are very impactful compared to verbal, email or other means. Write a personal note or thank you to those that do things for you. It’s a simple way to return a good feeling.
69. Take the blame
I don’t mean to take the fall for things you did not do (as that seems dishonest), I’m meaning to own up and take the blame when you do make a mistake. Owning up to it instead of denying it, blaming others or fighting back in any way is the fastest way to resolve things and so a great way to serve others.
70. Keep excuses to your self
It’s very easy to be get defensive and this is related to the blame game above. We use the technique of the victim cycle to make excuses in life. Keeping these excuses to ourselves at least keeps others from getting sucked into the blame game and helps to protect our habits from impacting others. Of course learning to eliminate excuses altogether is best but even the first step of keeping them to yourself helps to serve others.
71. Apologize sincerely
It’s actually quite sad to see how poorly most people apologize. Insincere and often still accusing of others disguised right within the apology. “I’m sorry you took it that way” is a LOT different than saying “I’m sorry I hurt you”. Keep your apologies sincere and always make sure you only include what you did that you are sorry for.
72. Promote employee engagement
A great way to serve others at work is to engage other employees and colleagues whenever possible. Look at ways to involve others, find things that excite your colleagues and show interest in people over the bottom line.
73. Give honest feedback
Mastering feedback is a crucial skill for a manager but can apply to anyone when serving others. Feedback is a powerful tool to use to send a message of concern and care. If feedback is used properly, there is no good or bad feedback, it’s simply a way of showing concern, express a hope for developing the best in others and a great way to serve them.
74. Tell stories
I love stories and I know many others do as well. It’s unfortunate so many people lose interest in stories as they age, I for one have not. Anything told as a story or that makes a story is of interest to me over other experiences and I know that stories have a way of drawing in others and developing relationships. Telling stories attracts people and is often used as a way to communicate an otherwise complex topic.
75. Control your response
While it is difficult to master, we do control our response to every situation in life. The choice is hard to always make the way we want to when thinking clearly yet with practice, we definitely serve others by getting better at controlling our response and being constructive and positive in otherwise difficult circumstances.
76. Master your state of mind
Our response is typically due to some moment or short time frame. Our state of mind however, is really an extension of that response and applied over long periods of time. State of mind affects our emotions, our mood and our thoughts at a drastic level and so in order to be at our best and to be in a state of mind that is helpful to others, we need to have some control over that state of mind.
77. Use the words, “Thank you.”
Why is “Thank you!” so hard to say? Compliments can be hard to come by sometimes and I believe its because we are so good at wrecking a good compliment with a poor response. Sometimes we argue back and say things like, “No I didn’t” or “Nah, you’re just saying that”. People have been taught that that is how to be humble but they are sadly mistaken. Responding in this way sends the message that they are wrong and so the compliment is rejected. It’s a terrible thing to do and subtly and unconsciously stops people from sharing compliments. There is one good response for a compliment, two simple words, “Thank You”.
78. Be prepared
The good old Scout’s motto, “be prepared” is a great way to think when it comes to serving others. If you are not prepared, you will need to be dependent on others and if you need them, how can you serve them as easily?  I’m not saying there are not exceptions to this, but in general, if you are prepared for a circumstance, you are more likely able to serve others in that circumstance yourself.
79. Stay healthy
Staying healthy keeps you out of the health care system, keeps others from having to look after you and enables you to live longer, set a good example and be able to serve others. If you can’t look after yourself, how can you possibly serve others as easily?
80. Live with less stuff
Serving others tends to take a second place in life for many of us from all the other things we have going on. We volunteer if we have time, we help a friend if we are not already doing something and we put our spiritual needs behind our career and family for the most part. Well, all our stuff and complexities tend to distract us even more and so living with less stuff and activities is an easy way to serve others as it frees our time for it and lets us put it as a priority.
81. Eliminate complaints
Complaints are toxic to other people and their moods. Most complaints are simply dwelling on the past and never really help anyone. Do others a favor and eliminate your complaints.
82. Keep emails positive
Emails are a cause of many communication breakdowns from saying things the wrong way or sending an unintended message. This happens especially with emails that are criticizing something or negative in tone. To prevent this and to keep in mind your service to others, keep your emails positive.
83. Communicate in person
When you have a chance to communicate in person over email, voice mail and even the telephone, take it. You can always communicate more easily in person than other methods.
84. Ask for help when needed
Another way to serve others is to ask for help when its needed. People do generally want to help when they can and asking for help is a sure way to give them that opportunity. Taking on work yourself often leads to frustration and bitterness which can have long term effects that affect your ability to serve. Sharing skills, advice and a helping help is a great way to serve others, on both sides.
85. Use your talents
You are created with your own set of unique talents and when you discover what they are you should use them. Talents are wonderful to show with applied skill and are very inspiring to others. Your talents are always the areas you will have the most impact in and if you use your talents, you have the greatest ability to serve others.
86. Practice patience
I’ve had to learn this one the hard way and am realizing how effective applying patience is in serving others. While I used to get very frustrated and impatient with others, I’ve felt that God has been testing me to learn to have patience and has opened my eyes to see how it is best for others when patience is practiced. I have learned the value in it now and truly believe that patience is a powerful way to serve others.
87. Protect forests
Our forests, our planet, our resources, it’s all a hot topic globally now and for good reason. We are destroying what everyone deserves to enjoy and a small portion of the humans are destroying the largest percentage. It’s a shame and the only way to combat it is to serve others by protecting the forests, the resources and our planet as a whole.
88. Forgive an action
Holding a grudge will get you nowhere. Forgiveness as hard as it is, is the best way to serve others. It’s the key to Jesus’ message and if we can live like Him, we are serving others by doing do.
89. Cancel a debt
Have you ever chipped in a few coins to cover someone’s bill at the grocery store? How about the money a friend borrowed and has never paid back yet? Cancel the debt and simply give it to them with no expectation of repaying the debt. If someone owes you something, don’t hold it over them, simply cancel and forget the debt and hold onto the relationship instead of the money attached.
90. Avoid the unimportant
Unimportant things distract us constantly from our lives, in our work, our families and in our relationships. The debt mentioned above could one of these things and it prevents us from realizing and experiencing what actually matters. If you want others around you to experience the best memories and relationships with you that is possible, avoid the unimportant and start doing, saying and acting on the important things in your life.
91. Be enthusiastic
I know that this one may be somewhat a personal preference but as a very animated and enthusiastic person myself, I’ve heard countless times how my energy and enthusiasm is such a great presence and character trait. I see the same in others and so I definitely believe that enthusiasm builds positive energy in others and that can only serve them by influence and perhaps, by being contagious.
92. Donate blood
This is a huge need for trauma care and a very selfless act that is truly done to serve others and provide a critical need.
93. Use positive dialogue
Positive dialogue fits into a few other items here as well but this is specifically in how you talk and what you talk about. If you focus on the positives in your life and words you say, you will make a positive impact on others as well. Positive dialogue includes discussions, your comments, feedback, hopes, dreams, aspirations and stories that are uplifting and positive in nature.
94. Do extra household chores
This is an easy one to do but unfortunately the word, “chores” has such negative thoughts associated with it for most people we avoid it. If that is the case for others as well, would you not say then that to serve them well would be to do some of their household chores?
95. Give anonymously
Giving is a great way to serve others. Make it an even better service by leaving a mystery by giving anonymously. If you are serving them, you don’t need the recognition and certainly don’t need the receiver to feel any obligation. The best gifts are the ones received in gratitude and anonymous gifts are easier to be grateful for than one that is connected elsewhere in our lives, so give anonymously.
96. Leave a specific compliment with a tip
Tips are an easy way to serve others in return for what they have done for you. If you want to make a stronger impact, then write a note or message with a tip to leave a specific compliment. Perhaps at a restaurant you could ask to speak to the manager and tell them about the great service you received from a specific server. The restaurant manager will be happy to hear this and the server will likely gain other benefits, far more than just your added tip.
97. Say hello often to strangers
Living in Calgary, while it isn’t a huge city, its much bigger than the small town I grew up in and it is odd how seldom people say hello. I hate that about the city and I’m doing my part to change it. You can too by greeting strangers, smiling in public and by simply saying hello to people as often as you can around the city. I ride my bike to work and love the bike paths I ride along as I often pass by people and have a chance to spread a smile and a hello. Most often it brings a smile in return and isn’t that a great way to serve?  I think so.
98. Keep your promises
Being a person who can be trusted to do what you say is an important way to serve others. Breaking a promise kills trust and takes much longer to rebuild. If you want to serve others, you need to keep your word to them and be honest when you know you can’t keep your promise as early as possible or ideally, before you make it in the first place.
99. Let love for others drive your life
Love is the most powerful thing in this world. It provides us all with an ability to drive through incredibly painful circumstances. It brings about hope and joy that can overcome any amount of suffering and it sets an example for service to others and to God like nothing else. Love is a gift we all have the option to experience by God’s grace, it is offered to each and every one of us. Experience that, make love a focus in your own life and use it to drive your life to serve others.
100. Recognize when God calls you to serve
Finally, my last in this list of 100 ways to serve is to open your mind and heart to God, to listen and then ultimately to act upon his calling in a way He wants you to serve.
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February 2nd, 2010 at 10:38 AM
Thank you for the mention and link up once again. You beat me to this post. :>) Great job, and I think I’ll be linking to this in the future.
I wonder how long it would take to actually do each of these. This might be a nice challenge for me to try over the next few days… weeks… months.
-Marshall Jones Jr.
.-= bondChristian´s last blog ..8 easy card games to rock any party… er, fellowship =-.
February 2nd, 2010 at 12:20 PM
Thanks Marshall! I’m sure you could come up with another 100 if you really want to. I appreciate the feedback and any link in the future. I’d love to see you add to the list with some more of your own suggestions or experiences in serving others.
I suspect doing them all would take a LONG time. Perhaps doing one a day is reasonable so in about 3-4 months? There are a few that are fairly tough to do in a short time frame though so it could take longer.
February 3rd, 2010 at 2:44 AM
wow, that’s a great compilation of a great list
February 3rd, 2010 at 10:35 AM
Excellent list Mike, I’ll go with 99%. The exception is picking up hitch hikers. Many years ago I had a hitch hiker steal my wallet and use my name every time he got arrested. I ended up with several arrest warrants in places I had never been. I had to go to court several times to prove I wasn’t him, so choose carefully because this one can backfire.
As for the rest of the list, I totally appreciate every item mentioned. Articles like this are extremely challenging and you nailed it Mike. Thanks for your inspiration!
.-= Jonathan – Advanced Life Skills´s last blog ..The Hike From Shipwreck Beach =-.
February 3rd, 2010 at 11:23 AM
Some really good stuff, thanks for sharing. I kind of (completely) disagree with 61, share your faith. To most people that translates as religon. I have told friends who have brought up that subject that I refuse to discuss my faith with anyone. (Go into a closet to pray) And I don’t want to hear their translation of religon, especially if I am trying to serve others. And I remember when strangers used to smile and say hello. I miss that, too.
February 3rd, 2010 at 11:49 AM
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by Mike_King: 100 Ways to Serve Others http://goo.gl/fb/Zso6…
February 3rd, 2010 at 11:54 AM
Thanks Jonathan, I knew the hitch hiker one would get some reaction as it is a risky one, but all service has some risks. I’ve hitch hiked a few times around mountain roads while out unicycling and have always had great experiences, so its just one to be careful with and where you do it I guess. What a terrible thing for someone to do to you, I imagine that would be quite difficult to correct once the law in involved….
February 3rd, 2010 at 11:57 AM
@Auntie Peg Wow, I’m surprised on your thoughts on faith. I believe sharing your faith and offering a choice to others who don’t know about it is a powerful way to serve them and God. I don’t suggest trying to force your faith on anyone, just to opening discuss it and share it with people who could benefit from a personal relationship with God and Christ. This of course, is always one that will stir the pot as everyone has a different idea of faith and religion so its quite OK to disagree here. Thanks for the honest comments and I hope I’ve explained what I meant better.
February 3rd, 2010 at 12:21 PM
Well, you certainly read my tips, Mike 🙂 You produced a wonderful list. I know how difficult it might be, but I also know the satisfaction that comes with it.
Congrats, my friend 🙂
.-= Dragos Roua´s last blog ..Don’t Hit It Big! Unless You’re Ready For It… =-.
February 3rd, 2010 at 2:24 PM
Thanks Dragos, yes, you have many great tips. Perhaps we’ll generate a list of 100 different 100 lists between us and other’s we’ve inspired. Making 100 lists individually would be a HUGE endeavor!!! Anyway, thanks for stopping by.
Anyone have some items to add to the list?
February 3rd, 2010 at 3:51 PM
Mike,
My favorite is #85.. use your talents! I bet you’re not surprised since I’m almost begging people everyday to dig deep to find and cultivate their spiritual gifts. Life is better and easier when we are sharing all of who we are!
February 3rd, 2010 at 4:53 PM
Thanks CK, and yes this is one of my favorites as well. I am actually leading a small group tonight talking about seeking and moving towards using your talents in your vocation or as your vocation. It’s an important topic for sure when it comes to serving others and obviously one you have the privilege of dealing with on a daily basis. Thanks for highlighting that one!!!
February 3rd, 2010 at 9:03 PM
Mike,
I absolutely love #96! What a great way to really make someone feel appreciated, especially after what could have been a long and trying day. And really, this whole list is wonderful, and a great message to spread!
.-= Lance´s last blog ..RAOKA: Gratitude =-.
February 4th, 2010 at 9:53 AM
Rather than trying to do each of these to accomplish some servant goal, just make it a part of your response to any given situation. There’s no check list on serving others. Just follow the great commandments, Love God, love other.
February 4th, 2010 at 2:36 PM
any good deed helps make the world better and a 100…..:)
February 4th, 2010 at 3:42 PM
Hi Mike.
There is a lot to work with in this set. I have a bunch that I wanted to follow up on. I’ll pick a few.
#13 is great. Us writers sometimes forget about how what we are doing has a huge impact. Those who are not writers can also have an impact through their writing.
#24 is the real deal. When we are genuine with an apology, people take notice, and we also take notice, leading us to improving where we erred. It brings some seriousness to a situation that can use seriousness, and the other person will be glad for your respect.
#73 is a cool one. Honest feedback is appreciated by those who are pro-active, and you quickly find out if someone is based on their response. Those who don’t appreciate honest feedback can be left without your feedback the next time.
#85 sounds simple, but we often forget some of our talents, and don’t use them for weeks or months at a time. Forgetting that we have a talent is about as good as not having it in the first place, so recognizing it is the way to appreciate what we have.
Solid package here.
.-= Armen Shirvanian´s last blog ..An Interview With Gail Brenner =-.
February 4th, 2010 at 8:55 PM
@Lance. Thanks for pointing out the one you like(#96-Compliment with a tip). I challenge you to do it the next few times you are out for dinner. I know I couple spare a few compliments for this, its been quite a while since I’ve done this one.
@Lew – You are absolutely right above making this more of a natural reaction, than a goal. That is a much better thing to do. I wrote it from the perspective of listing ways to help people open their eyes to the many possibilities they CAN serve others in their daily life. Many of these I’ve done and the rest are simply dreams or ideas to do in my life of servanthood. I only hope to inspire some of these same acts to others.
@MakMinMai – true but I’m not sure that all good deeds are neccessarily serving others. I guess it all depends how you define a good deed. Morality has to be looked at to understand good / evil and that is a whole other can of worms to unpack sometime!!
@Armen – Thanks for highlighting your favs. I’m so glad I worte out a comment/description for each one as it seems that people read the items of interest but much to think about and consider when there is a bigger description than just the item name. #85 has been bombarding me in the last 24 hours as I’ve been studying vocation, setting new goals with my wife, reading about calling, and setting some new career paths at work. Its great to do and challenging.
February 5th, 2010 at 4:35 AM
Hi Mike,
Great list-I especially like #1 and #91. As I get older, I’m realizing how important it is to stay positive and enthusiastic which was a lot easier when I was younger. Being positibe really does make everything better from relationships to work to friendships.
.-= Esther´s last blog ..Is It Love Or Lust? =-.
February 5th, 2010 at 9:39 AM
Great list! Glad I came across your site…
#70 is a great one, because I think so many of us get caught up with making excuses in life so often we don’t even realize we are doing it – but just scratch our head and wonder why things aren’t changing for the better…
February 5th, 2010 at 5:09 PM
Thank you for this very deep list. I liked especially #4 and #12!
February 5th, 2010 at 6:27 PM
@Esther – I love how someone a person’s character is revealed simply by what they attach the value to. You seem like a positive energetic person from your comment and blog. Thanks for highlighting your favorites.
@Brenda – That is one that I thought of really because its a pet peeve of mine when excuses are made instead of being honest.
@Perfect – Sometimes the simple things like buying lunch or shoveling snow from your neighbor are the ways we connect most with when it comes to serving others. Thanks for sharing your highlights.
February 6th, 2010 at 10:25 AM
Thank you for this list that serves in making the world a better place.
February 6th, 2010 at 11:29 AM
I love it! I try to serve others by smiling, sharing enthusiasm and a lot of other things, but I think those are the most important ones.
Wonderful list!
February 6th, 2010 at 2:46 PM
This is a great list.
We need to be better human beings.
I have a neighbor to my right, an older lady, who uses a walker. She doesn’t drive and can barely see.
I talk to her everynow and then.
I have another neighbor to my left and she always asks me why I bother talking to her, that the old lady just likes to pour her problems on everyone and I shouldn’t waste my time or get involved.
I told her that everyone needs someone to talk to every now and then, she’s lonely and giving her a few minutes of my time does not bother me, I’m just an ear and person that comforts her and if I can encourage her or give her hope with the word of God, I feel I must.
The other day, my son and I went to Mcdonalds to pick her up a chocolate milkshake she was dying for. She couldn’t get herself.
We need to be better humans and serve each other.
This is a great list in which everyone should implement.
It is a great reminder to us all…Love it, love it.
February 6th, 2010 at 6:47 PM
@Jacqueline Thanks for adding your appreciation as a comment. A great to serve fellow floggers.
@Stefan – we each have the ones we love and are our favorites and that is the best part of any list, find something in it that you value and go do it.
@Sandra – what a great story. It’s compassion afterall that we need to share with others, not what we THINK they need, but simply whatever they ask for or show that they do need. Someone to listen, sure, that is a great way to serve. Thanks for sharing that story!
February 7th, 2010 at 5:46 AM
Mike, you’ve done a great job again. I realize that it is not easy to make list of 100.
Thanks for sharing with us. 🙂
February 8th, 2010 at 5:43 PM
Really a great 100 list ways to serve others. They are all good deeds for me but one that catches my attention is #5. You’ve said it, it is too scary and risky to be with a hitch hiker. I haven’t experience it but I’m afraid of giving someone a ride specially when you’re alone driving or with kids inside the vehicle.
This is one great list, you really had work on your list very well. Thank you for sharing.
February 9th, 2010 at 7:17 AM
This is a fabulous list,Mike.
Good reminder for all of us.
.-= BunnygotBlog´s last blog ..Sleeping With Your Business Partner =-.
February 9th, 2010 at 3:39 PM
that was a lot of hard work puting together that list you can tell you took your time and put quality effort into it. I can’t even see one you took the easy way out on.
February 10th, 2010 at 8:58 PM
Great post for creating a wonderful upward cycle in the world, instead of the downward cycle so often seen. I would add that it is important to do something but not expect anything in return. Good will come back to you, but not necessarily in the way you want or expect. And, doing something only looking for a reward for yourself is actually a selfish, rather than altruistic, motive. If people don’t do something good in return, I’ve learned that it’s okay; I know that what I did was good and it helped someone else out, which is all that counts.
February 10th, 2010 at 11:07 PM
@Arswino – thanks and its nice to see you back again. You are definitely right, these huge lists are not easy to make but I can assure you they are worthwhile, in so many ways. I’ve learned a lot about service and been able to focus more attention to this area in life as a result. I am still re-reading it surprised at some of the content, its kind of funny!
@Hands free… – Many of these can be scary really, this is a common one for sure. Service however often puts us out of our comfort zone and lets us be truly generous towards others. Not easy, I have much work to do here myself.
@Bunny – Thanks bunny and its nice to have you back! It’s been quite a while since reading from you so hope all is well. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you!
@textbook – thanks for the great compliment. I certainly wanted to put my best effort into this. The hardest task was not writing an entire post for each of the 100 entries as I’m sure I could really, there is so much to expand on.
@Dan – Awesome to have you new to the site here! You are absolutely right about the expectations we have. True service you cannot do if you expect to receive immediately for what you give. We must accept this and give out of grace and joy anyway, regardless of whether or not there is anything or even opportunity for it to be returned.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:11 PM
Do NOT mow your neighbors lawn. I did this with two neighbors over the years. The first got pissed because he thought I was trying to tell him to mow his friggin’ grass. The second got pissed because it wasn’t mowed the way he liked. Never again.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:25 PM
@Wayne – You are right, this one and many others here could backfire in a way that you do not expect or want. In this case, I’d suggest you talk to your neighbor first and offer or ask how they like it mowed first. I think if you have a good relationships with your neighbor (which perhaps you should develop first) then they won’t get mad at you. Some people find accepting a gift very hard and so your generosity is not always accepted at first. That is no reason not to serve others as serving others should be about serving them, not about what you get in return, good or bad. If you get a good thing in return, that should be no difference than a bad response in return. Serve for the purpose of serving, not what you get from doing it!
Do you really think one bad experience is what everyone will have or that you will have again in the future? I hope not as that is why we all tend not to serve.
February 11th, 2010 at 10:37 PM
In reference to mowing the lawn from Wayne’s comment.
Women won’t get mad..lol..
Mike, exactly.. it’s the point of serving others..nothing else. Do whatever you can to help anyone- whatever the duty calls..Find a need and fill it.
And life will be well lived.
February 12th, 2010 at 11:47 AM
Oh really useful,informative and based on reality post. Thankx for this. There are lots of ways to serve others. And you have summarised most of them. To serve others without the hope to be paid or get back help can boost the self-esteem. Keep helping others guys!! take care
.-= Gjivan´s last blog ..Personality Disorders =-.
February 14th, 2010 at 1:16 AM
This is a really thought-provoking and all together great article. I plan on buying coffee for the person behind me later (as also mentioned here http://blog.crankingwidgets.com/2007/10/23/how-to-be-nice/ ).
But I have to say I disagree with #18. It might be hard to distinguish someone who is down on their luck with someone who suffers from a mental disability or drug addiction. It would be too easy to host someone who is detrimental to your family.
Plus it’s not exactly accepting my beliefs (#46) by saying I should recognize God’s call for my service (#100).
February 14th, 2010 at 3:02 AM
You have some great ideas. I love the english language so could you please, please do me a favour and check your spelling. Debt is not spelled dept, know where is supposed to be nowhere and you don’t loose something you lose something (even in american/canadian english).
February 14th, 2010 at 9:53 AM
@Sandra, thanks and funny, lol… The point about serving is to serve, not to get a result we want or expect is one of the best things we can realize if we ever want to love to serve. Not everything happens without consequence and there is also some risk in serving others, for sure. I know its worth it though.
@Gjivan – thanks for your comments and thoughts on this. Service is definitely an esteem builder and gives confidence when we help others, great point you’ve added here!
@Katie – This one sure is debatable and perhaps the risk is too great for many people, however, many homeless are simply that, homeless. Great people, loving individuals and unable to afford a home. They need help as to the individuals who suffer long term addictions or mental illnesses, they still the help and if we can, we ought to serve them and offer the help. I’m not saying everyone should do this if the risk is too great to them or family in dealing with people with these problems, but its still a way to serve and one where there is a great need.
@Nyxstar, you’re the first of 20,000 viewers to point out those big mistakes and thank you for that service. I will make the corrections soon, as the huge traffic on this page has blocked me from editing it right now since it appeared as a denial of service attack from my host and they protected it with mod security from any changes at the moment. I’ll fix as soon as I get that issue resolved (DONE NOW). Thanks for your attention to the details and for taking the time to offer your service so I can correct this. Much appreciated. BTW: I can’t believe I spelled debt wrong so many times! lol
February 14th, 2010 at 6:51 PM
I really enjoyed this post! It gave me so many ideas, and helped inspire me a little more. Thank YOU! Have a great week filled with opportunity and kindness.
February 15th, 2010 at 3:06 AM
Just Smile! Laughter is the best medicine, and can do lots to defuse even the most serious situation. Great list, Mike. I like the way you think. Have a great week!
February 15th, 2010 at 8:03 PM
@Chris – thanks for the comments and encouragement, its always much appreciated!
@Industry news – Thanks again and I agree and love laughter and smiles as well. A great service to those around us.
February 17th, 2010 at 12:03 AM
I used to do most of these things until i got jaded. Thanks for reminding me that life is better lived in service of others.
.-= Career | Male Nurse´s last blog ..Myths about nurses persist =-.
February 26th, 2010 at 3:23 PM
I can’t wait to put a lot of them in to action.
I tweeted it and stumbled it.
Inspirational post!
Klaus Tol
March 14th, 2010 at 11:32 PM
I love and agree totally with #60!!! My favorite quote of all time: “the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances”.
March 15th, 2010 at 4:31 AM
As for #97 “say hello often to strangers”, it’s quite hard to do it here in my country. It’s not a part of our culture but I think I can still do it!
.-= Alvin Nyau´s last blog ..PIKOM PC Fair Malaysia 2010 – where, when, venue, location, date, time =-.
March 19th, 2010 at 6:58 PM
#2 and #96 are great. #2 might seem like an easy one but it’s surprising how not many people leave the door open 🙂 it’s much appreciated, especially when you’re holding lots of things!Thanks Mike, great list.
March 19th, 2010 at 7:39 PM
Thanks Career and Klaus for your comments.
@Nina – Thanks for supporting the choice to be happy!
@Alvin – I’m sure there are several ones that seem out of place due to cultural differences. I’d suggest you do the ones you can, after all there are 100 right?!
@Sarah – Simple guestures and compliments make a huge impact for some people and is just so easy to do, its a shame more people don’t do them more often. I hope those numbers inspire it to happen just a few more times in this world, that’s all I hope! Thanks for pointing out the ones you like, its always interesting to see what people connect with.
March 25th, 2010 at 4:19 PM
This is a great and long idea. But it is very useful. keep it on.
mike
.-= mike´s last blog ..SIGN IN =-.
April 22nd, 2010 at 7:25 AM
*Smiling* LOVED this list! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Keep Writing!! 🙂
May 5th, 2010 at 5:03 PM
Mike, your mind must thing in 100’s. I don’t know how in the world you come up with all these 🙂 I liked the suggestion about mowing a neighbor’s lawn.
May 5th, 2010 at 5:54 PM
THanks Steve, I have a few more 100 lists in the works. It definitely takes a lot of thinking to make such a list, I’m not so sure though that I think in 100s. 🙂
May 10th, 2010 at 8:45 PM
A great list that more people ought to follow.
Benjamin Koshkin
June 9th, 2010 at 11:46 PM
Hi– Stumbled-upon this, and I will be starting it out 100 Ways in 100 Days! 🙂 follow my journey on my blog! sjbthewords.com starting June 10!
July 8th, 2010 at 6:42 PM
Fantastic!
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:25 PM
great work!!!
July 26th, 2010 at 12:16 AM
If we focus and have strong determination, we can definitely follow these rules. But, whatever all we need to have is will power and determination to fulfill…
August 3rd, 2010 at 1:28 AM
Wow! what a great article. I really was in need for this. One way to boost self-esteem is to serve others without wanting to be paid back. These tips are really useful and informative.
September 22nd, 2010 at 11:39 AM
Hi Mike,
This is an awesome article. Thanks for your such a beautiful article. Really loved it. Thank You So Much..!!!
October 10th, 2010 at 6:13 PM
i like your list with the exception of the hitchhiking. It is illegal in most states and dangerous.
October 11th, 2010 at 9:38 PM
Well Pat, its only illegal within city limits around Canada and something many people consider to be unsafe, but without a doubt, its safer here and still a great way to serve someone who is needing a ride without ill intentions.
October 12th, 2010 at 7:57 AM
I’m doctor myself and this post is just topnotch!
November 11th, 2010 at 11:11 AM
Great 100, Number 1 for me is Smile, I would like to use this information on a Peer leadership program for high school students. contact me
Thank you
Jose
November 12th, 2010 at 12:15 AM
Thanks Jose for the feedback and request, I’ve emailed you…
November 16th, 2010 at 11:53 AM
i help people customize their device [iphone ipod touch], and try to solve basic issues and questions [ on Q&A Forum] where they get stuck . though i cant help all the time , but some readers of my blog lend their helping hand …. makes the job easy for me …
February 14th, 2011 at 6:15 PM
Is there any way to get this 100 list sent out to subscribers at 3 or 4 per day (cover the whole list in a year)?
I would subscribe to get them, just as reminders of what I already know I should be doing.
February 14th, 2011 at 7:50 PM
Interesting idea Sheila, but no, I have no way to send these out as their own news feed, sorry.
July 11th, 2011 at 1:39 PM
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July 19th, 2011 at 3:48 AM
Great post. As I am an apprentice this will help me greatly, thanks!
July 29th, 2011 at 5:44 PM
I like some but I have to disagree with #11 here is proof sharing your dreams can be detrimental http://davincidilemma.com/2010/11/is-talking-about-your-goals-a-bad-idea/
July 29th, 2011 at 11:40 PM
haha, I’ve seen that before and do agree the personal value of keeping goals to yourself. However, if you tell others, it inspires others and encourages them to achieve goals and the social acceptance that might hurt the goal teller, it motivates the other social people to start their own, which is why this is about serving others, not yourself. So, in that sense it is better to share them. If this was 100 ways to serve yourself, it would be to keep your goals to yourself and not share them…. OK, in all seriousness, its just a silly perspective thing on this point, it is an interesting video for people though and so thanks for sharing this video.
August 6th, 2011 at 9:16 AM
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August 25th, 2011 at 3:54 PM
I love all the ideas. Making it through all 100 might take a bit, but it will certainly help anyone get started on helping others. I have a website called whatsmypart.com and I love finding new way to give. Thanks for the post and the great ideas : )
October 2nd, 2011 at 8:34 PM
Awesome list Mike. I’m excited to thoughtfully practice these! I like how generalized it is so you can serve your friends, family and anyone. I wonder if the list would change much if it were specific like ways to serve your family/spouse/parents/etc. You should make another one 🙂 peace
October 3rd, 2011 at 1:17 AM
Hai mike, i have onemore thing to add into your list.”we should tell the mistakes done by some person when he z alone instead when others are present”.
October 4th, 2011 at 3:22 PM
An interesting discussion is worth comment. I believe that it’s best to write extra on this subject, it might not be a taboo subject but generally people are not enough to talk on such topics. To the next. Cheers
November 16th, 2011 at 7:31 AM
Here is a tough one. Use kindness to return good for evil. This can free you from resentment Romans 12:20-21
December 13th, 2011 at 4:33 PM
Hey Mike, thank you for your wonderful list. I have done most of the suggestions, and have been rewarded on many different levels by doing so. I have been working on a talk to give at my Spiritual Center and your list came up on the internet and really helped me complete my task. Be well and prosper friend of the universe.
love and light
Hans
March 7th, 2012 at 8:53 AM
These are great suggestions! I’ve been exploring the reasons why many of our churched youth decide to leave the church, and impediments to the Gospel in general. I think that we forget that good works goes hand-in-hand with evangelism. I’ve posted a link to this article at http://howtofalldown.wordpress.com/2012/03/07/on-barnas-six-reasons-why-young-christians-leave-church-irrelevance/.
Keep up the good work,
Tony Breeden
DefGen.org
June 12th, 2012 at 7:40 AM
thanks sir i m very happy with this article thanks lot sir take care .
June 13th, 2012 at 12:38 PM
you just solved half of my problems . i m so happy that i clicked on this page . great views . life becomes meaningful when u walk with this feeling . i jus realized my purpose is worth it ..
September 29th, 2012 at 4:22 PM
Mike, these are a hundred wonderful suggestions and it is my intend to try to do as many as possible each day. Very inspirational!
Susan
October 9th, 2012 at 11:58 AM
Would say that these were rules to live by other than ways to serve others. Great list.
November 12th, 2012 at 7:27 PM
Thanks for the “100 Ways to Serve Others”! I loved 100 and yes, you kept the best til’ last. 100: Recognise when God calls you
Thanks again and just wonderful list! 🙂
November 19th, 2012 at 6:36 PM
Thank you soooo much! u made life much easier. can’t believe you thought of so many.
p.s. i tried to pay for the coffee the guy behind me bought, but instead of “Thank you!” I received a “I’m not broke dood!
November 19th, 2012 at 9:05 PM
Thanks Kate, unfortunately, not everyone knows how to receive graciously. Service is best when you have no expectation of appreciation though. Just simply serve, despite the response or lack there of sometimes.
April 17th, 2013 at 9:28 AM
Thank you for all the work you have done. I look forward to sharing this with our ladies Bible class. We are always looking to make life better for those around us.
Many Blessings from Parkersburg, WV
April 27th, 2013 at 4:17 AM
Nice work. I used this at school.
November 12th, 2013 at 3:14 PM
Saying hello to others (#97) is a good way to serve others. Making somebody else happy, lifting somebody’s mood, and improving the day of another are acts of service that are worth the time taken. Loneliness can be a major problem.
May 24th, 2014 at 9:35 PM
Hey Mike! I am impressed by your list and challenged to do all the items, mostly because I think about many of these, but never take the time to do a lot of them. Being from WI – shoveling snow was sure one that we did a lot of! I look forward to doing that one near my CA home somehow??? Anyway, stay tuned and I will let you know how long it takes while still working and doing all my other projects! Thank you for all you do.
Sheryll Lynn
http://love-people.com/pages/loveideas
June 5th, 2014 at 8:19 PM
Thanks Sheryl for taking the time to comment and respond. I noticed your site link didn’t work for me, so I hope you post again and update that>>… Cheers.