Recently, while conversing with a prominent elderly person, he rhetorically asked himself, “Am I making an impact?” And I smiled, slightly baffled, thinking, “You, too, have this thought?”
I encountered the same question when conversing with a young adult last week. Even more surprising, a teenager told me that one of her life goals is to “make an impact.” At this point, I began to wonder if we could buy “I want to make an impact” off the shelves. Haha—naughty me, I know!
But here’s the thing…
When the seemingly accomplished, the young, the upcoming child, and even you—yes, YOU—keep asking this question or quietly searching for an answer, maybe I can point you in the right direction.
The Hidden Answer to “Making an Impact”
You know that native quote: “What you are looking for in Sokoto is in your shokoto (trouser)?” Simply put, what you’re searching for in distant lands is right in your hands. Making an impact isn’t about a grand gesture or a one-time, life-changing goal. It’s much simpler than that.
The truth is, making an impact is about being intentional in your daily actions. It’s about treating others with love, kindness, and respect—is the best line manager or boss to your team, the most thoughtful neighbor, or the most caring spouse, mother, or sibling. It’s in how you treat the poor, the needy, or the homeless. You can fill in the blanks.
Your sphere of influence can be your social space, neighbourhood, business circle, work environment, home, community, or volunteer group. Impact doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s not a far-off dream reserved for extraordinary people. It’s the deliberate actions you take to improve your immediate environment.
Simple, Everyday Ways to Make an Impact
Here are some ways you can start making an impact right now:
- Practice kindness daily: A smile, a kind word, or a small gesture of help can brighten someone’s day.
- Lead with integrity: Whether at work or home, leading by example creates ripples of positivity.
- Support those in need: Contribute your time, resources, or expertise to help those less fortunate.
- Be a light in your community: Volunteer, engage in local initiatives, or simply be a positive presence in your neighbourhood.
These consistent, small actions transform you from merely doing good to being a beacon of light. Over time, they become a lifestyle that’s unshakeable.
The Misconception About “Impact”
Many people view making an impact as a daunting, impossible task. They envision it as something that, once achieved, will bring immense fulfilment and universal applause. But this is a misconception. True impact isn’t about one-time, gigantic goals—it’s about consistent, small efforts that brighten your corner of the earth.
When you deliberately decide to be a light in your small part of the world, doing the little good you can, you’ll naturally inspire others to do the same. The satisfaction that comes from this is the real “impact” we all seek.
“Making an Impact” is Already in Your Hands
So next time you or someone else wonders about making an impact, remember: It’s not about grand gestures. It’s about the small, consistent actions you take daily that leave the world a bit better than you found it.
If you’ve ever asked yourself that question, do me a favour—share this explanation. Let’s start focusing on the small lights we can shine today.
