Maximize your social impact

According to the Diversity for Social Impact website, the definition of social impact is:

“…any significant or positive changes that solve or at least address social injustice and challenges. Businesses or organizations achieve these goals through conscious and deliberate efforts or activities in their operations and administrations.”

This means that it’s businesses and organizations making changes that can have a positive impact on our society. Sounds good. But what if you wanted to do some good on your own? What can you do? Social impact doesn’t have to be a grand change by a large company or organization. It can start at home. With you.

Here are 10 things you can do right now to make a positive change for someone else.

1. Be kind.

Open a door for someone. Smile and say, “Thank you.” Smile and say, “Hi” to your neighbor. We need this more than ever.

2. Mentor someone.

No matter your age or experience, you have something to offer a younger, less experienced person. Ask them if they would like you to mentor them.

3. Ask a senior about their past.

Don’t wait for a mentor to ask you; ask someone older and wiser if they would mentor you. They have a lifetime of wisdom to share, and time spent with a senior will benefit you just as much as it will benefit them.

4. Bake someone a cake.

Imagine how you would feel if a neighbor came to your door with a cake in hand and told you they baked it for you, “just because.” Give that same feeling to your neighbor.

5. Plant a tree.

A seed growing into a tree is a metaphor for a small idea that can grow and make a big impact. Well, this is not a metaphor! Trees and their leaves filter CO2 and make oxygen. Plus they can supply cool shade and soften harsh urban landscapes. Planting a seedling helps present and future generations.

6. Offer to babysit to help out a single parent.

Everyone needs a little “me time,” and single parents rarely get that time. A breather will help them be a better parent, which is good for all.

7. Start with your own family.

Is there someone in your immediate or extended family that could use a hand? Maybe a nephew without anyone to take him to (or pay for) his school? Is there an elderly aunt whose car needs an oil change? Get siblings or cousins to help together.

8. Donate supplies to a classroom.

School kids should have the supplies they need to learn and grow. Sometimes teachers are left to foot the bill. Your donations can go a long way.

9. Leave a generous tip.

While tipping isn’t common in some countries, if you live in a location that does encourage tipping servers, be generous, especially for excellent service.

10. Vote.

No matter where you live or what your political beliefs, show up and vote. It counts and can make a difference.