If you’re searching for deeper fulfillment beyond your career, volunteering is a powerful way to find it. The impact you make doesn’t have to be grand—starting small can create meaningful change. Here’s how to get started. 

Don’t let doubt hold you back. It’s easy to feel like one person’s efforts won’t matter, but focusing on what you can influence—whether in your neighborhood, community, or a cause close to your heart—makes a real difference. 

Start small—and start now. Many people wait until they’re more accomplished or financially secure before giving back. But if you keep waiting for the right time to take action, you could be waiting forever. Find an organization or initiative that aligns with your values, and begin in a way that fits your current capacity. You might even ask what organizations your friends and colleagues are involved in. Even small contributions add up over time. 

Stay open to where volunteering might lead. You may start with a few hours a month, only to realize your passion for a cause shapes your long-term path in unexpected ways. As your values evolve, you may even find a cause worth pursuing professionally—leading to a career that aligns with your purpose.
This tip is adapted from “Looking for a Sense of Purpose? Volunteer.” by Harry Kraemer.
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