Notes from Jo: Volunteering

"Do you have a few minutes to chat/talk/help me?" These are words I hear a lot. I am sure you do too. It is an honor for someone to lean in and ask for help and I am always humbled when people ask for it. But these days we are stretched thin. I really believe that it is when you are your busiest that it most important to step back and reflect. What is keeping you this busy? Is it the day to day? Is life getting lifey? Are you getting in as much as you put out? When I think about this I remember how lucky I am to get to be able to be a volunteer with Promokitchen and with PPAI. I have met so many people through these industry organizations. Does this keep me busy? Yes, incredibly! But busy in the best of ways. I get to meet new people. I get to be part of conversations that I wasn't having in the past. I get to learn new things that can help me in my career and with life skills. Best of all, I get to have fun while doing it! Volunteer work keeps me engaged and motivated. I am constantly being reminded of the north star in the volunteer work that I do. They help keep me in check and focused. I challenge you to find your north star, your mission statement, your passion and go for it! Life is for living! Get out there and live for others and yourself.