Making a difference in the world is key to living with more joy, more meaning, and purpose. Simply put, it means having an attitude of doing good in the world and ensuring a positive impact on those you interact with along the way. The question is, are you giving back to get something back? If so, you will be disappointed. The purpose of being philanthropic is to make a positive impact – to do good. When you help someone else, you are also helping yourself. Research shows when you do good for others, you are increasing the serotonin in your brain, called the “helper’s high.” More reason to do good.
So, how can you make a difference in the lives of others? What does that mean to you? Is it helping a friend, being kind to someone in need, volunteering, or joining a cause? Whatever you choose, do it without the expectation of getting anything back, whether it’s dropping books off at the library, picking up groceries for an elderly neighbor, think of ways to add positive energy to the situation, person, or place you are.
Another way to make a positive difference is to leave the world a better place. A great example of this is when you go into a room, you leave it clean or you turn off the lights before you go. It’s the little things that can make a huge difference.