By: Jay Diamond
You have been given a gift that can create positive change in this world - but it has been hidden in plain sight.
You have something special, and unique to you that can make a difference in people's lives, but are you using it?
The thing is, most people think having a social impact means shivering in a tent at an anti-fracking site; working for a huge national charity, or leaving your job to volunteer in a war torn country. These are fantastic, and not the only way.
The challenges you have been through in your life have equipped you with a unique set of skills, understanding and compassion in an area where someone needs help. It's given you a fire in your belly - a fire that can be used to fuel the force of change.
We tend to close the door on the untidy parts of our lives, especially when they have given us pain, hoping no one will discover just how hurt we were.
But they can hold the key to your impact in the world.
The failed marriage, family mental health issue, bankruptcy, crazy father, absent mother, bullying brother, loss of a child... while all challenging or truly heartbreaking; in fact provide wood for the fire of the soul.
You ultimately develop deeper compassion - something this world could use more of.
Though difficult at first, you may eventually develop tolerance, courage, humility, resilience, drive... the list goes on. You get your priorities straight. You decide what truly matters in life to you - and who matters; and you find a new respect for those things.
In the times when your heart is drawn to a cause, situation or person you have the power to create social impact by sharing what you have learnt, by offering a kind word, or taking action in that direction.
Never, ever, underestimate the power of loving acceptance, a helping hand, or an organised plan. It could be a life line to a member of your team or the single dad at the bus stop.
"Run from what's comfortable. Forget safety. Live where you fear to live. Destroy your reputation. Be notorious." - Rumi
If you're a control freak - organise the hell out of a fundraiser.
If you know what a messy divorce looks like - give your flagging boss a bit of leeway.
If you have seen your husband suffer from depression - set up a Direct Debit to a charity that supports men.
If your mother has dementia - use your corporate presentation skills to assist a carers group.
If you have struggled as a working mum - become a mentor.
If your father had a gambling addiction - give your wise and kind words to the young man needing guidance.
If you are startled at the destruction of our rainforests - support the people who are doing something about it by raising awareness and offering funds.
And if you're still unsure, write down your 3 biggest challenges in life so far and brainstorm the qualities, skills and gifts you received or developed from each one. Then, brainstorm all the small ways you can use them in the world, from patience in traffic to buying a homeless chap a sandwich and a coffee.
It may be a small gesture to you, but could mean the world them.
You HAVE a social impact gift that you CAN offer! We all do!
Small actions consistently made, equate for huge impact, and furthermore it creates a ripple effect of paying it forward. When you are brave enough to take action it's highly likely the person you are helping or someone in your circle will do the same. In this way, you create a wave of social impact in your community.
I coach clients to reach their happiness potential in mind, body and soul, and it is my deepest challenges that allow me to connect, get to the heart of the matter and realign them to joy. It's because of my challenges, I am so passionate in my belief that we all deserve to thrive, that we can, and that we all have unique gifts to offer the world.
Take your key, and unlock your social impact gifts today.
Pioneers for Change is a seed-bed for innovative thought. An activator of personal potential. A catalyst for collective energy. A community to drive social change.
Our annual, international Fellowship is open to anyone aged 28 -- 108 years old. We gather change-makers -- a business person, a community person, an investor, a thinker or doer -- who are willing to harness their talents, energy and resources as a force for good. Pioneers for Change is an initiative of Adessy Associates.
Adessy Associates believes that a better world is possible, and inspires and equips organisations and individuals to make positive change happen for the benefit of people, planet and profit. Our bespoke interventions harness sustainability, innovation, consciousness and purpose. We are B Corp certified.
About Jay Diamond
Jay is creator of The Sacred Woman Tribe - providing online courses, meditations, intuitive coaching and public speaking to help women get a calm mind, healthy body and fulfilled soul. Trained as a healer and psychic reader with a degree in Psychology she will plug you in to your own innate wisdom and power.