3 Small Ways to Make a Big Difference

Earlier this month I was asked to participate in a collaborative project to chronicle the ways that people can make a difference in the world. Specifically the small things that people do. Not everyone is a millionaire and not everyone can give up their careers to volunteer full-time. But there are little things that we can all do to help make a difference.

Raam Dev has combined over 40 different bloggers’ ideas for making a difference into an ebook. You can download the full ebook here, or visit his site for more information. I’ve also included my three submissions below.

Stay relevant

Read the news. As often as possible. Staying up-to-date on both local and world news is important. It’s important to be aware of what’s going on around the world. Stay in touch and you stay relevant.

Learn new vocabulary

Every time I hear a new or interesting word, I try to write it down. Talking with people from different countries, backgrounds or beliefs, you’re constantly exposed to new vocabulary. Keep those words—whether as a memory or as a way to teach others. Words have power.

Eat less meat

Many cultures around the world don’t consume nearly as much meat as America. You can get the necessary protein from much more sustainable and environmentally-friendly methods. You don’t have to cut out all the meat in your diet (I haven’t) but just be aware that you’re probably consuming more than you actually need.

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What do you think? Can your small actions really make a big difference? I think so. But I’m generally an optimist.