Even in Difficult Environments

Being of service to others is one of the most profound sources of joy and fulfillment. Whether through our careers, volunteer efforts, or simple, everyday acts of kindness, service has a way of enriching not just the lives of those we help but also our own. Giving fosters a deep sense of connection and purpose, reminding us that we are part of something larger than ourselves.

However, while the act of giving is inherently rewarding, it’s also important to recognize that sustainable generosity requires balance—especially in challenging environments. If we neglect our own well-being, the very thing that brings us joy can become exhausting. What happens when we work in an environment that doesn’t appreciate our contributions? How do we stay committed to service when those around us are driven by negativity, competition, or even cruelty?

The Joy of Serving Others

There’s something deeply satisfying about knowing we’ve made a difference in someone’s life, no matter how small. Science supports this: research suggests that acts of service trigger the brain’s reward system, increasing feelings of happiness and satisfaction. Michael Norton, a professor at Harvard Business School, explains that while recipients of generosity clearly benefit, those who give also experience a boost in well-being.

But beyond the science, personal stories highlight the transformative power of service. Consider the simple act of offering emotional support. Elaine Gibson, a hospital worker in the Bronx, has spent nearly 25 years writing handwritten notes of encouragement to patients. For her, this is more than just an obligation—it’s a calling. The smiles, tears, and gratitude of those who receive her notes remind her that a small gesture can have an enormous impact. Her dedication not only uplifts others but also fuels her own sense of purpose.

The truth is, service is not just about what we give; it’s about what we receive in return. A sense of meaning. A connection to others. The knowledge that we are making the world just a little bit better. But this can be tested when we work in environments where generosity is not valued or, worse, where negativity dominates.

Being of Service in a Toxic Workplace

It’s one thing to serve with joy when surrounded by like-minded people who appreciate kindness and collaboration. It’s another to maintain that mindset in a toxic workplace, where negativity, gossip, and competition overshadow teamwork and generosity. Many people find themselves in environments where their contributions are dismissed, where leadership is indifferent, or where colleagues seem more interested in tearing others down than lifting them up.

Yet, in these very environments, being of service becomes even more powerful. Not because it changes the workplace overnight, but because it changes you.

• Be the Light in the Darkness. When surrounded by negativity, your kindness becomes a radical act. Even when no one acknowledges your efforts, your ability to remain compassionate and professional will set you apart. You don’t have to absorb the toxicity around you.

• Refuse to Engage in the Negativity. Office gossip, resentment, and bitterness are contagious, but so is optimism. Choosing to rise above petty behavior doesn’t mean ignoring real problems, but it does mean refusing to contribute to the cycle of toxicity.

• Set an Example of Strength. People often follow the strongest example in the room. If negativity is dominant, it’s easy for others to give in to it. But if you consistently model patience, fairness, and service, you may inspire others to do the same. Even if they don’t change, you’ll know that you stayed true to yourself.

• Practice Self-Preservation. Being of service doesn’t mean being a doormat. If you are in a workplace that actively undermines your well-being, set firm boundaries. Protect your energy. If necessary, seek a way out. You are not obligated to suffer in the name of service.

Balancing Service with Self-Care

While giving can be deeply fulfilling, it’s important to acknowledge that we are not infinite wells of energy. If we overextend ourselves, we risk depletion—not just physically, but emotionally as well. The best service is not born from exhaustion but from a place of abundance.

One of the most crucial aspects of sustainable generosity is setting boundaries. It’s okay to say no when our plate is full. It’s okay to ask for help instead of shouldering everything alone. By acknowledging our limits, we allow ourselves to serve more effectively in the long run.

This is especially true in professional settings, where service often takes the form of mentorship, leadership, and collaboration. Without clear boundaries, the desire to help can turn into an expectation to always be available, which can lead to burnout. Learning to delegate, taking time for rest, and ensuring our own needs are met allows us to serve from a place of strength rather than exhaustion.

Ensuring Appreciation and Managing Expectations

It’s natural to want our efforts to be acknowledged. After all, putting time and energy into helping others—whether through work, family, or community service—takes effort. But while appreciation is wonderful, it’s not always guaranteed. Not every act of kindness will be met with gratitude, and not every contribution will be immediately recognized.

This is where the idea of selfless service becomes powerful. When we shift our focus from seeking acknowledgment to simply doing what feels right, we free ourselves from disappointment. Instead of measuring our impact by external validation, we can find fulfillment in knowing we did our part.

That said, in professional environments, clear communication about our efforts is important. If we are consistently offering our time and skills without recognition, it may be necessary to advocate for ourselves. Ensuring that expectations are aligned—whether with colleagues, managers, or even family members—helps prevent feelings of being taken for granted.

Finding Strength When Others Want Misery

There will be times when, no matter how much good you bring to a situation, others will resist it. Some people find comfort in conflict. Some thrive on drama, manipulation, or power struggles. In these moments, your ability to remain strong in your values is a form of quiet defiance.

• You do not have to be like them. Just because others choose to operate with negativity doesn’t mean you must sink to their level. Your strength is in your refusal to become bitter.

• Your joy is your power. There is nothing more frustrating to toxic individuals than someone who refuses to be dragged down by their negativity. By maintaining your sense of purpose, you deny them the satisfaction of breaking you.

• Be wise about where you invest your energy. Not every battle is worth fighting. Sometimes the best service you can offer is to lead by example and let others make their own choices.

A Sustainable Practice of Generosity

Being of service is one of the most meaningful ways to enrich both our lives and the lives of others. When we serve with joy, set healthy boundaries, and release the expectation of immediate gratitude, our acts of generosity become more sustainable.

True service is not about giving until we have nothing left. It’s about sharing from a place of fullness—one that allows us to continue making a difference for years to come.

By finding this balance, we create a ripple effect, one that extends far beyond what we can see. And in the end, that’s the true beauty of service: the knowledge that, in giving, we also receive.

After writing this I came up with a summary

Being of service to others is a profound source of joy and fulfillment. Whether through professional endeavors, volunteer work, or everyday interactions, acts of service enrich our lives and those we assist. However, it’s essential to balance our desire to help with self-care, ensuring our generosity remains sustainable and appreciated.

The Joy of Serving Others

Engaging in acts of service fosters a sense of purpose and connection. Research indicates that giving to others enhances our own happiness. Michael Norton, a professor at Harvard Business School, notes that while recipients benefit from generosity, donors experience emotional rewards as well. This mutual benefit underscores the intrinsic value of service.  

Personal narratives further illustrate this joy. Elaine Gibson, a Bronx hospital worker, has spent nearly 25 years offering emotional support through handwritten notes of encouragement. Her commitment to uplifting others not only aids those in need but also provides her with a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.  

Balancing Service with Self-Care

While serving others is rewarding, it’s crucial to maintain personal well-being to continue offering genuine support. U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy emphasizes the importance of relationships, service, and purpose in achieving fulfillment. He advocates for a balanced approach, suggesting that while service is vital, it should not come at the expense of one’s health or personal relationships.  

Setting boundaries is essential to prevent burnout and ensure that acts of service remain fulfilling. This involves recognizing when to step back, delegating tasks, and ensuring that one’s own needs are met. By doing so, individuals can sustain their capacity to serve others effectively.

Ensuring Appreciation and Managing Expectations

Feeling appreciated is a natural human desire, especially when dedicating time and effort to assist others. However, it’s important to manage expectations and understand that not all acts of service will be met with immediate gratitude. Serving with humility and without the anticipation of recognition can lead to a more profound sense of inner peace and satisfaction.

In professional settings, clear communication about one’s capacity and setting realistic expectations can prevent feelings of being overwhelmed or taken advantage of. Regularly assessing one’s commitments and ensuring they align with personal values and available resources is key to maintaining a healthy balance.

Conclusion

Being of service is a noble endeavor that enriches both the giver and the receiver. By finding joy in helping others, maintaining personal well-being, and managing expectations, we can create a sustainable practice of generosity. This balanced approach ensures that our acts of service continue to be a source of fulfillment and positive impact in the lives of others and ourselves.

Cheers,

Gage Gorman