As we approach Christmas, it can be a very commercial time, very different to its original intention. I remember last year reading about a wealthy couple who bought a jewel encrusted casserole dish because they had everything and couldn't think what else to buy. This made me feel sad, considering what else they could have done with the money to help those less fortunate than themselves and make a difference locally. There are the people like them this Christmas driven by finding the latest gadget/widget so they can be ahead of the Jones', but isn't this a short-term empty kind of fulfilment?

Then there are the people who will give up their time to do Crisis at Christmas and give the homeless a hot Christmas dinner. People who work for charities make a huge difference and they get paid little, and it is sad to see charities having to make cut-backs. What difference do you want to make through your work? I have seen a growing trend, pre credit crunch and since for people who want to make a difference and help the world in some small way. It might be recycling, mentoring young people or something else close to their hearts. Many companies have corporate social responsibility policies, so this is one way of making a difference, without it needing a lot of time or money.  We all need to earn a living from work, but perhaps there is a way for us all to make a difference too?   My passion by the way is helping young people improve their self esteem and have more self belief. 

Here are two organisations I wanted to create some awareness for in this bulletin as they focus on the basics for survival - food and drink. They make a difference on a big scale and perhaps they may inspire you to make a difference locally.

1) Think about the specific cause or group of people you feel drawn towards - how could you make a difference locally?

2) Reflect on your life experiences and work to date and how they equip you to potentially make a difference to others. What do you feel strongly about to make a difference?

3) Picture the world in 100 years and how you could help it evolve where it needs to and make a difference?

4) Come up with three ways you can make a difference every day e.g. checking an elderly neighbour is ok; helping a mum with a heavy pushchair; pushing someone's car stuck in the snow. It is easy to be busy tapping away at Blackberries/Iphone or checking Facebook, rather than connect with people who need our attention right under our noses!

Our NEW career change e course is ideal for helping you to identify how you can make a difference in your career. It has 10 sections, over 250 pages and 20 practical and insightful exercises. You can do one section at a time over 10 months, paying as you go, or download the whole e course in one go. Click on this link to find out more:  career change e course

 
Did you know we do Gift Vouchers? They make a thoughtful and practical Christmas or Birthday present to help someone who is at a career and life crossroads take stock. You choose the £ value to suit your budget. E mail us for details:  rachel@liberateyourtalent.com

If you know someone who is interested in making a difference, why not forward this bulletin to them?