The Ultimate Guide to Making a Difference in the World

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Alright, let me be real with you right from the start: this isn’t for everyone. If you’re already drowning in overwhelm—like the kind where one more request feels like the last straw—please stop reading and go take care of YOU. Curl up with a blanket, ignore your phone, or scream into a pillow if you need to. Seriously, this can wait.

And I say that because I know that feeling. I’ve been there—saying yes to everything because I genuinely wanted to help, believing that if I didn’t do it, who would? Then came the burnout, the resentment, and eventually the tears. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

So if you’re feeling like your tank is empty, consider this a hug from me to you. Rest, okay? You deserve it.

My Life Philosophy: Joy + Lifting Others Up

If we were chatting over coffee right now, I’d tell you this: my life philosophy boils down to two simple truths:

1. Enjoy your life—really soak it in, all the good stuff.

2. Lift others up in a way that feels natural to you.

And here’s the kicker: these two things aren’t separate. They feed into each other. If you only focus on enjoying life, it can start to feel a little... hollow. But if you spend all your time helping others without refilling your own cup, you’ll burn out fast.

I’ve lived both extremes, and trust me—the sweet spot is where you’re so full of joy that you have extra to give. That’s where the magic happens.

So, if you’re in that space—ready to share a little of your light—let’s talk about some ways you can make a difference.

Three Ways to Make a Difference

1. Start Something Yourself

I know, I know—starting something sounds huge. But hear me out. You don’t need permission to jump in and help when you see a problem.

For example, I’ll never forget when a migrant crisis hit Denver, and thousands of newcomers found themselves literally sleeping on frozen streets. You know who showed up first? A group of moms. Just everyday women like you and me who decided, Enough. We’re going to do something.

They:

• Created group chats to communicate needs
• Organized weekly donation drives
• Provided meals, clothes, and basic support
• Connected families with lawyers and resources

No red tape. No “let’s schedule 10 meetings first.” Just compassion and action.

And that’s the thing—sometimes the best way to help is to simply start. Whether it’s a fundraiser, a support group, or a food pantry in your garage—you don’t need a fancy plan. Just start where you are.

2. Join an Organization That’s Already Helping

Maybe the thought of starting something feels overwhelming. I get that too. The good news? There are already incredible organizations out there doing the work—and they need you.

These groups have the systems, the resources, and the experience. All you have to do is show up and offer your time. Think of the possibilities:

• Volunteer to read with kids at a local library.
• Help teens who are returning to school catch up on work.
• Coach youth sports teams.
• Deliver meals or assemble care packages.
• Support animal shelters (because dogs always need love!).

Pro Tip: Google volunteer opportunities in your zip code. A lot of places welcome families, so it’s also a beautiful way to teach your kids about kindness and community.

3. Transform How You Move Through the World

Okay, I know this one might sound too small to matter. But trust me—it’s not. Sometimes the simplest acts of kindness can completely shift someone’s day, or even their life.

So what does that look like?

• Watching a friend’s kids for an hour so she can breathe
• Offering a ride to someone without transportation
• Letting people merge in traffic (I know it’s hard, but you can do it!)
• Thanking service workers like you mean it
• Holding the door for someone
• Shoveling your neighbor’s walkway
• Complimenting a parent who looks like they’re this close to losing it

These little things matter—because they remind people that they’re seen, that someone cares. And honestly, you’ll feel good, too.

Crucial Mindset Shifts That Make Helping Easier

1. Choose One Focus

You don’t have to fix everything. Choose ONE cause that tugs at your heart—whether it’s mental health, homelessness, or animals—and go all in.

Focused energy creates way more impact than scattering yourself thin.

2. Do What Feels Fun

Here’s your permission slip: helping doesn’t have to feel hard. If you’re a natural planner, join a nonprofit board. If you love being outside, clean up parks. If you adore animals, volunteer at a shelter.

When you align your passion with action, it feels energizing—not exhausting.

3. Small Actions Count (More Than You Think)

Please, please don’t underestimate the power of small gestures. Big changes start with tiny steps. Your kindness, your effort—it all matters.

You Already Have What It Takes

I know the world can feel messy and overwhelming. It’s so easy to think, What difference can I really make?

But you’re more powerful than you realize. Whether you want a tighter-knit neighborhood, safer schools, or a better community, you can be part of that change. And it doesn’t have to be perfect or polished—you just need to take that first step.

Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” (Yes, it’s a little cliché, but still true.)

Want a kinder neighborhood? Go meet your neighbors.

Want healthier schools? Volunteer in a classroom.

Want safer communities? Attend a local meeting, canvas for change, or even run for office.

You don’t need more credentials or resources—you already have everything you need. You just have to decide: Where can I start today?

And when you take that step, I promise—it’ll feel so, so good.

You’ve got this.