How can I make a difference in the life of an individual?

Making a difference in someone’s life can be quite simple. However, often we are too busy to stop and think about what we can do to help. 

To help you reflect on how you can make the world a better place, in this blog we highlight 6 small but important ways you can make a difference in someone’s life for the better. 

1. Smile at a stranger 

It costs nothing and is something we can all do. Next time you’re out on the street, at the shops or in the park, smiling at the people you pass. You never know, it could actually make someone’s day. Everyone needs a little bit more joy and happiness in their lives, and this is a great way to provide it. 

Rather than looking at your phone, why not look up and appreciate what, or who, is around you? After all, we are human beings with the capacity to respond to a genuine show of warmth. A  kind smile from a passer-by makes our neighbourhoods feel more connected.

2. Call up an old friend 

As we get older and our lives become busy, we can often lose contact with those that used to be close to us. Even our nearest and dearest friends can turn into strangers as our careers, partners or kids start to take precedence. 

You can make a difference in someone’s life who you used to be close to by giving them a call to catch-up. They will appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to think of them. Don’t just make this a one-off, try to give them a call once a week, month or year. You may not be able to see them all the time, but keeping in contact and knowing you are still friends can make a huge difference. 

3. Help out an elderly neighbour 

Whether you mow their lawn, take out their bins or help them with their groceries, giving your elderly neighbours a helping hand is a great way to make a difference in their lives. 

When we are young and mobile we don’t often think about how hard it is for older people to do everyday tasks. Offering to do these quick tasks for them will help them out immensely in their everyday life and they will really appreciate the kind gesture. 

4. Show someone you believe in them 

When people feel that they have a support system, and that someone truly believes they can achieve their goals, they can become unstoppable. Showing someone that you have confidence in them can transform a person’s feelings and views about themselves. 

Whether it’s a junior work colleague, your children or partner, a friend or a family member, showing someone that you believe in them and support their aspirations can make a world of difference. Knowing they have you to back them can motivate them to work harder, improve their confidence and achieve their dreams. 

5. Be there to talk to someone when they are struggling 

Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. One of the most meaningful and important things you can do for a friend, loved one or work colleague is take the time to listen to them when you know they are struggling.

You might not be able to solve all their problems, but you can be a great listener and sounding board. Being there to talk to about serious issues make someone feel cared for and understood, and maybe a little less alone in the world.

6. Teach someone a new skill 

As the saying goes: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime”. When you support someone in learning a new skill, you can change their life for the better. 

You might teach a child how to ride a bike, your cousin how to drive a car, your colleague how to write a proposal, or your friend how to cook a lamb roast. Studies show that we also learn by teaching, so taking the time to share our talents and knowledge is invaluable for everyone involved. And you may just be giving an individual a skill they use throughout life. 

Start making a difference today! 

Whether you choose to smile at a stranger or tell someone you believe in them, your kind gesture will make a huge difference in someone’s life!  

Don’t underestimate the power you have as an individual to make this world a better place. Be that positive change you wish to see and start today.