The Power to Change the World

Do you believe that you have the power to make a difference in the world? Or are you one of the many who feel that your contribution could not be large enough to make a measureable difference? Today I want to challenge that thinking.

There is a great quote from Leo Rosten, which says “The purpose of your life is not to be happy: but to matter, to be productive, to be useful, and to make it make some difference that you have lived at all.”

I have always found such truth in these words. In fact, I’ll go one step further to say that even in your darkest times, reaching out to make a difference in the life of another can not only improve their life, but yours as well. True happiness lies in being the best person that you can be for you, and also for the world.

When I discuss this topic with others, I often hear the response “I just don’t have time”, I certainly understand this feeling, but what I’m trying to tell you is that you don’t have to spend 10 hours a week volunteering at a local shelter to make a difference (Kudos to those of you who do). Making a difference doesn’t mean great acts of time and money; it simply has to be something you make a conscious effort to do.

Tomorrow, when you get up, commit to making a difference in the day of just one person. Take a moment and think about how you could do that. Remember, you don’t have to do giant acts of goodness. A little can go a long way. What you do, anything you do, is important. You have the ability to make a difference in many of the lives you touch every day, even if you don’t know it. Your challenge is to brighten someone’s day in an unexpected way. Perhaps it’s a random act of kindness. Perhaps it will be a sincere compliment to someone not expecting it. Or maybe it will be calling up someone from your past that made a difference in your life, and thanking them for it.

If you enjoy this challenge tomorrow, try it again the next day. Just one person, one small act, every day. If you really find it rewarding for you, challenge a friend or two to do the same. Tell them how good it made you feel, and encourage them to try it. If they enjoy it as well, have them tell 2 more friends. The possibilities are endless. If you need ideas or support, a quick search on the net for “making a difference” will give you pages of ideas, and forums where you can chat with others doing the same thing.

I want you to remember something for me. You are a gift to the world, and you have a gift. Everyone’s gift is different, and everyone’s contribution is different, but the important thing is to go out and make a difference in the world in any way that you can. You are never too old, too young, too poor, too rich, or too insignificant to make a difference. Also, remind yourself this not only benefits others, but you as well. When you begin making a difference in other people’s lives, you will find your own life becomes more fulfilling. It’s a win-win situation. You have the power to change the world – don’t waste it!