When we give with an expectation for something in return, our heart posture is not in a place that will allow us to truly benefit from the inner richness that comes from selfless acts of generosity.
Practice efforts that put prioritize someone else’s needs above your own without any expectation of receiving anything in return—including acknowledgment.
More evolved brains (with larger amygdalas) have been shown to be more selfless. On the flip-side, brains of psychopaths prove to not acknowledge the fear of others as well and are less likely to offer a helping hand (source).
It doesn’t matter how big of a difference you can make. We all have more than we need in one way or another. Recognizing where we have abundance and gratefully giving the excess will return in far greater gifts than keeping what we do not need.