Making a difference
The overwhelming majority of people in our society want to make a difference. Whether in the lives of the people they love, their communities, or the broader human collective, there's an inherent urge to contribute to society in a meaningful way. When it comes to work, it may be challenging to identify how you can truly make a difference. It all starts with your perspective of course, but the type of work you do can also make it a bit more challenging to identify how you are making a difference. Don't over think it. Your output is meaningful. Let's explore a few key ways to ensure that you are making a difference.
If you truly want to make a difference, start today with what you have. There's no requirement for a grand gesture or a million dollars in your quest to make a difference. Don't delay until you believe you have all of the trappings required to make a difference. Simply start today with what you have by showing up as your full self in every space you enter, which of course includes work. People that encounter you, benefit from learning about you, your interests, thoughts, and perspective. Put forth your best effort. Ask questions to learn more about topics you are not as familiar with. Make an effort to be a contributor in each exchange. There's no career that is too small to be meaningful and in reality the jobs that are often seen as the least meaningful keep our societies running smoothly. We can all learn from others and that includes learning from you.
Give your time in the interest of sharing your talent and contributing what you can to those who need it most. Even if you are at the very start of your career, there is always someone who can learn from your experiences. Take the time to help someone else find their career path by introducing them to someone at your company or assisting with insight about your experience. Serving others through the gift of your time is a very rewarding act that not only benefits the recipient of your time, but greatly benefits you as well.
Innovation in your career space provides a unique opportunity to make an impact in your chosen field of work. This can feel like a much bigger stretch, but in fact you can intentionally curate your career in a meaningful way that will encourage your creativity and spark innovation. Thought leaders and idea generators are required in every field of work. People that have the unique ability to look for a solution to every challenge are assets to any team or business. Those that take the extra step to share their idea are invaluable. The result of your innovation is impact to your overall industry, but more importantly a boost to your confidence in your ability to make a difference.
The journey of making a difference in the work you do is invaluable. It doesn't require the huge lift that may come to mind when you consider how you can make a difference through your work. Get started by thinking outside of your immediate surroundings. Give your time to the people and communities who need it most. Impart your creativity to elevate your industry through innovation. No matter how you decide to share your genius, the world will be better because of your effort.
*Written from the window to the wall, in our home.