Every business owner dreams of future returns and a comfortable retirement, but the quality of your life is just as crucial as your bottom line. True joy comes from giving to others and having a positive impact on the world around you. You’ll get more enjoyment out of life, and your business will improve in intangible, but vital ways. Here’s how your business can have a positive impact on the world.
1. Declutter the Neighborhood
DaVita’s executive CEO Kent Thiry believes that taking a couple of hours occasionally to pick up trash in your neighborhood will save your city money and make the area more attractive. It’ll also make your neighbors happy while you and your employees enjoy the satisfaction of knowing they’re doing their part for the environment. Pick a sunny afternoon a couple of times a year to beautify the area.
2. Develop a Mentoring Program
Nothing is more important than donating time to the youth in your city, so create a mentoring program for high school students. They’ll get an idea of what life is like in the workaday world and may even decide to pursue a career with your company.
3. Donate to Children
Think about donating supplies such as pencils and crayons along with paper to the schools in your area. Children are some of the most vulnerable people in society and can use a helping hand. School supplies are expensive, especially for children from low-income families. By donating these items you contribute to a child’s future.
4. Donate Time
When you volunteer in your community, you’ll learn about the people in need in your area. Helping others is a great way to broaden your outlook on the world. It gives your life meaning and purpose, and others benefit from your time, so volunteer at a local food bank or on community projects. Plant trees or help build a volleyball court for local youth.
5. Do Recycling
By providing recycling bins in convenient locations throughout your office, you’ll reduce the amount going into landfills and help prevent global warming. You’ll protect wildlife because recycling and reusing materials lessen the number of trees that have to be cut down. You’ll also help create jobs in the recycling industry and provide industries with materials they can then turn into new products.
6. Demonstrate Kindness
Show kindness to others, and you’ll not only make them happy, but you’ll also reduce the amount of stress that’s often felt in the work environment. You’ll improve office morale and they, in turn, will show kindness to your customers. Happy customers mean repeat business.
More than that, however, demonstrating kindness will make your life happier and more satisfying. Your blood pressure will lower, and you’ll live longer and have better relationships with others.
It’s only natural to want a successful business, but unless you experience joy in other aspects of your life, that success won’t satisfy you. Strive to have a positive impact on others for better business culture and a better world.