Helping others isn’t just a nice thing to do—it’s the right thing to do as we strive to be the good in the world.

A few days ago, I was flying back from an amazing writing retreat.

As I got on the plane with my heavy carry-on bag, I attempted to put my bag in the overhead bin. I knew it might hurt—I have a torn rotator cuff that makes lifting things very painful—but I figured I’d give it a try.

As I tried to lift my bag over my head, sharp pain shot through my shoulder. I struggled awkwardly, the bag half up and half down. It was clear I needed help.

But when I glanced around, everyone just stared at me, silent and unmoving. For a moment, I wondered why no one stepped in.

Still, I needed help and I knew I had to say something. Finally, I gathered the courage and asked someone near me if they’d mind helping me.

They agreed—but the look on their face told me it felt like an inconvenience. I thanked them for their help and settled into my seat, wondering why offering help seemed so difficult for people.

This uncomfortable experience got me thinking: Why don’t we jump in to help each other more often?

What’s holding us back?

And what can we gain by choosing to reach out when we see someone struggle?

Seeing Someone Struggle—And Doing Nothing

How many times have you seen someone who obviously needed help, but found yourself hesitating?

Maybe you were afraid to offend them or make them uncomfortable. Maybe you assumed someone else would step in. Or maybe you felt it wasn’t your responsibility.

On the airplane, maybe people assumed someone else would help me—or perhaps they thought I could handle it myself.

But assumptions don’t help anyone.

Regardless of the reason, we need to make it more of a point to help others, especially when we see them struggling.

The Importance of Noticing

The truth is: we’re all going through something. It could be physical pain, emotional stress, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life.

We might not show it on the outside, but many of us carry invisible burdens.

Helping others doesn’t require knowing their entire life story.

It simply means noticing when someone is struggling—and being willing to do something about it.

When we actively pay attention, we become better at recognizing when others need a hand.

That’s the first step toward making a difference.

Helping Isn’t Always Comfortable—And That’s Okay

Stepping in to help can feel awkward. And there may be all kinds of thoughts going through our head.

We may worry that we will embarrass them by asking if they need help.

Or we may wonder if it will be an inconvenience for ourselves to jump in and give our help to someone else.

And what if they don’t actually need help?

These questions are natural, but, in all honesty, offering help usually does more good than harm.

Even if they politely decline, your kindness is never wasted.

The discomfort is temporary, but the positive impact can last a long time.

What Helping Others Does for You (And Them)

Helping someone isn’t just good for them—it’s also good for you.

When you choose to step forward and lend a hand, it helps you to feel happier and more fulfilled.

It helps you to build empathy and compassion while creating connections with others.

Most of all, it makes the world a better place and encourages others to do the same.

The person you’re helping receives more than just practical support.

They get the reassurance that someone cares enough to notice their struggle.

And above all, they feel valued and seen.

Simple Ways to Start Helping More Often

Helping others doesn’t have to be complicated. Small acts of kindness matter, and they add up quickly.

Here are some easy ways to step up and help:

Pay attention:

Notice people around you. When you see someone having trouble, don’t wait—just offer to help.

Don’t wait to be asked:

If someone drops their groceries, help pick them up. If someone is struggling to open a door, open it for them. Simple actions matter.

Offer kind words:

Sometimes people just need to hear something supportive or encouraging. Words of kindness can make someone’s day better instantly.

Follow your instincts:

If you sense someone needs help, trust your gut. Don’t overthink it—just reach out and offer your support.

Make helping a habit:

The more you practice noticing and responding to others’ needs, the more natural it becomes.

Let’s Be the Helpers the World Needs

After my experience on the plane, I decided to use it as a reminder—not just to myself, but to everyone I talk to: when you see someone struggling, jump in and help.

I know it’s easy to hold back or wait for someone else to step up. But the world needs more people willing to step forward.

Kindness, generosity, and empathy aren’t things that happen by accident—they happen because we intentionally choose them every day.

So here’s my challenge to you this week: look around, notice the small moments when someone might need you, and take action.

You might just change someone’s day—or even their life—by choosing to step in.

The next time you’re on an airplane, or at the grocery store, or just walking down the street, ask yourself: “How can I help?” And when you find the answer, do it.

After all, every single one of us has the power to make someone’s day a little better. Let’s start today.