Unless you happen to be one of those lucky people who has 25 hours in a day, you’re probably like the rest of us mere mortals who want to make a difference in the world but we just can’t seem to find the time to do it. Well I have some good news. You can be selfless to be selfish. In this week’s Fearless in 5, we’ll tell you how you can help others while you help yourself at the same time.
To start off, find out what fuels you and share it with people that you respect and admire. I promise you that they will be immediately able to help you find ways to channel that energy. Before you know it, you’ll turn that passion into a passion project.
Secondly, volunteer your time with a non-profit or local organization that pulls at your heartstrings. But don’t think that you need 20 hours to make it happen. Devote just one hour a month to get started and it will get into your calendar.
Thirdly, volunteer within your own organization. There may be a Corporate Social Responsibility program or cause that you’re excited about, or an Employee Resource Group (ERG) that you can either start or get involved with. Not only will you help all of your colleagues, but the executives and leadership will see just how much of a leader you are, and you’ll develop new skills at the same time.
Number four—mentor others. Not only will other folks be able to benefit from your insights and experience, but you will benefit at the same time. Research from Wharton and Booth shows that when people mentor others it builds their confidence and strategic thinking abilities.
And five—create a karma jar. Every time you do something nice, write it down and put it in the jar. This will give you a moment to feel gratitude and appreciation for what you have. You can also start to get a little competitive with yourself and see how quickly you can fill the jar up. It will help develop your skills and when you need that dose of confidence, you can reach in, pull it out and make your day.
So even if you feel that you don’t have enough time, make that commitment of just one hour a month to start. I promise you it will magically appear in your calendar. And what you’ll get at the same time are new skills, relationships and confidence to help you be more fearless at work and in life.
And to learn more, come visit us at Wet Cement at wet-cement.com.