10 practical ways to make the world a better place
10 practical ways to make the world a better place
“He who has control over himself has control over the world” - Seneca.
If you prefer, you can watch/listen here.
If you’re motivated by making a meaningful contribution in the world, but are feeling overwhelmed and helpless in the face of conflict and disaster, these suggestions have been put together as a reminder of what we can all do, however small, to help others and make a positive impact.
10. Donate wisely
When people talk about supporting causes they believe in, most often they are talking about donating money to charity.
71% of Britons surveyed said they had donated in the past month, compared to 65% a year earlier. (CAF)
You may choose to donate a percentage of your income each month, either to the same or a different charity each time, or you may wish to set up a recurring payment to one you feel strongly about supporting.
This can be an amazing way to support causes you believe in, but only if it’s researched well and you’re happy you know where your money is going.
Always check the organisation you’re donating to is a registered not-for-profit by searching the Charity Commission and Companies House databases.
Also, remember that you can donate other things besides money, including:
Food to food banks.
Clothing and household items to charity shops.
School uniform to uniform exchange schemes.
Books and magazines to hospitals and health centres.
9. Align your work with your purpose
Finding meaningful work is a lifelong pursuit for many of us.
If you feel stuck or bored in a role that’s not particularly exciting, take Ali Abdaal’s suggestion from his book, ‘Feel Good Productivity’ and try asking:
‘What would this look like if it were fun?’
If your work simply does not align to your purpose, but is a necessary means to an end, take inspiration from the Japanese art of Ikigai and work on identifying the overlap between what you love, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for and what the world needs.
8. Spend with a conscience
From food to cleaning products, cars to clothes, caring about where and how you spend your money can send a powerful message to both business owners and the authorities alike. Whether it’s buying from and supporting local businesses or shopping at farmer’s markets and local suppliers to cut down on food miles.
Amidst the cost-of-living crisis, people are still very interested in making ethical choices, with environmental impact the primary reason why people avoided purchasing certain products. (Ethical Consumer)
Increasingly, consumers care about whether the companies they buy from share their beliefs or not, whether this is around animal testing, diversity and inclusion, political affiliation, and whether their products are produced ethically and sustainably.
More than ever, businesses of all sizes need to consider their social and environmental responsibility to ensure they don’t exclude a large part of the buying public.
7. Give your time or expertise
Giving your time and using your skills for good is arguably an even more effective way to contribute towards positive change than simply donating money. It feels good to be part of a group of people all working towards the same cause, with similar passions and values.
89% of volunteers in the UK said it makes them feel like they’re making a difference. (Time Well Spent)
You can volunteer in-person or online, from marshalling a sponsored run, cleaning out an animal shelter, reading to children in schools, befriending elderly neighbours, mentoring people going for a job interview, or training in first aid or mountain rescue. For inspiration, you can find volunteering opportunities here.
You could also consider giving blood and signing up as an organ donor.
Think about the skills and experience you have. Websites such as Reach Volunteering will help to match your skills with charities looking for that expertise.
6. Speak up
You don’t need a huge following or a stage and a microphone to speak up, stand up for what you think it right and raise awareness of causes that matter to you.
You can share helpful information and make people aware of and understand issues that you feel a connection to. Whether you do this through everyday conversations, writing on your blog or on social media, or through your work or education.
Of course there are opportunities to protest, attend rallies, sign petitions and go on marches, but not all advocacy requires that. There are many peaceful ways to protest, to speak out for your beliefs and the rights of others, and to calmly work with others to bring about the changes you want to see.
Sometimes it can be as simple as standing up for someone who is being unfairly criticised or discriminated against.
From stopping wars, winning human rights victories and standing up against racism - protest has been powerful. (Amnesty International)
5. Love the planet
There are so many small things we can do to live more sustainably and help care for our planet. Finding a couple of simple changes can make you feel like you’re on the right side of progress:
Walking or cycling instead of driving.
Buying less or only what you need.
Turning off lights and unplugging devices.
Using refillable and natural cleaning products.
Recycling packaging and composting food waste.
Growing your own fruit and vegetables.
Using reusable cups, bottles and bags.
60% of what we throw away is actually recyclable! (NatGeo)
4. Help your local community
From picking up litter to planting trees, there’s always something you can do, either on your own or in a group, to help your local community.
Communities have knowledge, skills and assets which mean they themselves are well placed to identify and respond to any challenges that they face, and to thrive. (New Local)
We might be overwhelmed by the idea of changing the world and wondering how, as one person, we can really make any difference. But by caring about where we live, what we can see, the issues that are on our doorstep, we become part of the ripple effect that eventually does change the world.
3. Start your own organisation
Whether it’s a community group, local business, social enterprise or charity, starting your own organisation with the objective to raise awareness of an issue, fix a problem in your community, or to do something positive and meaningful in the world, is a powerful and proactive way to be on the right side of positive change.
Last year, the number of CICs on the register rose by 8% with 5,339 new community interest companies being incorporated. There are now over 26,000 CICs on the register. (CIC Regulator)
You might think about turning an interest or skill into a business that fills a gap not currently served in your community, or you may choose to formalise a group of people all working towards the same aim.
2. Lead by example
If tiny acts can create a ripple effect, then it’s worth doing our little bit every day to pay it forward and spread kindness. This can be as simple as telling someone you appreciate them, to doing a good deed for a stranger, or just being there when a friend needs a listening ear.
It could also be about becoming the role model you always wanted to see, setting a positive example and inspiring others to follow their dreams.
“Be the change that you wish to see in the world” - Mahatma Gandhi.
1. Prioritise your personal development
When it feels like you, as an individual, couldn’t possibly make any significant difference, remember what the ancient stoics said about control:
“He who has control over himself has control over the world” - Seneca.
Practice mindfulness, meditation, gratitude and journaling. Focus on educating yourself and learning about new topics. Read books that inspire you, listen to podcasts that motivate you. Identify the areas of your own life you want to improve and take the next steps in your personal growth. Step into your power and go out into the world with a positive mindset.
You might find the following free online courses useful: