One Person Can (and does) Make a Difference by Cindy Stradling CSP, CPC

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And, I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” Edward Everett Hale

When you are busy with business and life responsibilities, it can be easy to neglect doing things in your community. We often think that because we don’t have a lot of time or a lot of money, our contributions are worthless. However, giving back to your community is important at all stages of your life and of your career. Everyone can give. And, every little bit helps when it comes to time and money. Here are three reasons why it’s important to give back to your community even when your time and money are limited.

1. It makes you feel good. The stress of everyday life can take its toll. We all need rest, but that rest shouldn’t necessarily be just sitting at home with our feet up. Doing work that is different than what we do for a living and that makes us feel as though we’ve made a difference can be relaxing and invigorating at the same time.

2. It gives you a fresh perspective. You may learn some very valuable lessons for your business while volunteering. You may see new ways of doing things or managing resources. You may also meet some potential customers.

3. It looks good for you and your business. In today’s society, people desire the chance to do business with people who are part of the fabric of the community. When you volunteer and give in your community, others will see you as being willing to make a contribution, as opposed to being someone who is only in the community to make money from it.

You may feel that you don’t have one more minute in your day to add another activity. Your purse strings may be stretched so tight that you can’t imagine making a contribution to anything else. But, once you get out in your community and see what a difference you can make, you’ll be hooked!