Ever feel like you're just a drop in the ocean? Think again! Your choices to participate, or not - in your family and community are crucial ingredients in the recipe of life.
Your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers are watching and learning from you - even when you and they aren't aware of it. You might think your contributions are insignificant, but here's the truth: every time you choose to show up, you're creating waves that spread far and wide.
5 Ways Your Participation Makes an Impact
Family: When you choose to be present at the dinner table instead of scrolling through your phone, you're building stronger connections.
Neighborhood: Bringing a welcome basket to the new family on the block? You're also nurturing the importance of being an active part of your new community.
Work: Offering to lead that project no one wants? You're not just a team player; you're helping boost team morale.
Community: Giving your Saturday to the local animal shelter isn't just about cleaning cages. You're also supporting causes close to your heart and strengthening community bonds.
Personally: Attending town hall meetings, watching a presidential debate and voting isn't just a civic duty - it's a personal investment in local democracy.
The Daily Practice of Making a Difference
Making a difference isn't always about grand gestures. It's usually the accumulation of small, everyday choices that lead to acts of kindness and consideration becoming second nature. These choices may not always be convenient, but they're important!
Your Participation Checklist
Greet a stranger or open the door for them with a smile.
Listen attentively to a friend in need.
Pick up litter in your neighborhood, even if it's not yours.
Offer assistance to someone who seems overwhelmed.
Share your ideas at community or workplace meetings.
Regularly choosing to participate offers benefits - for you and your community. It's about being part of the solution and actively contributing to the world around you!
Why It Matters
It is Inspirational: Your actions can motivate others to get involved too.
It Builds Momentum: Small actions can snowball into significant community changes.
It Increases Personal Investment: The more you participate, the more connected you feel to your community.
It Creates Connections: Active participation leads to stronger social networks.
It Establishes Credibility: Consistent involvement can make you a trusted community member.
The Bottom Line
Your participation in family and community life isn't just nice to have - it's a fundamental building block of a thriving society. While it may not always be easy to choose involvement over inaction, the snowball effect of your choices will be seen in future generations.
As you go through your day, decide to take advantage of more opportunities to participate. Your family, community and you will benefit from your 'on purpose' engagement. Choose one 'new' thing you can do this week - life's too short to watch it from the sidelines!