A virtue to practise

Helpfulness

Helpfulness is noticing what needs doing and pitching in, often before anyone asks.

What helpfulness means

Helpful people keep their eyes open. They notice the bag that is too heavy, the friend who is stuck on a question, or the table that needs clearing. Being helpful also means asking "How can I help?" and then helping in the way the other person needs, not just the way you would like to.

How to practise helpfulness

1. Do one job at home today without being asked.
2. Offer to carry, hold or fetch something for someone.
3. When a friend is stuck, help them work it out rather than giving them the answer.
4. Ask a family member, teacher or workmate, "Is there anything I can help with?"

Want a new virtue to practise each morning? Start with Virtue of the Day.