I know the title of this post seems lofty and quixotic, but when you think about it, changing the world and making it a better place doesn’t have to be as grandiose as people may think.

It’s easy to believe we don’t have the influence and to tell ourselves, “I’m just one person.” “Who am I to make a difference?”

I say these are just excuses. We have a chance to influence thousands of people, if not many more, in our lifetime, and it’s our choice whether we exemplify and exude kindness, compassion, and love, or whether we leave our mark with anger, guilt, and disdain.

When it comes to making a greater contribution to society and leaving your mark on the world there are many principles from psychology, philosophy, and religion that can help us find direction in this pursuit.

Here are a few steps to consider.

There is something encouraging about a person who has a clear direction in life.

The goals they set, decisions they make, and values they hold revolve around a clear mission that offers them significance and engagement.

Their life has purpose and it shows.

Purpose helps us to establish meaning in life and relates to the goals we aspire to achieve. It is central to our lives and influences thoughts, emotions, and behavior.

It spurs our motivation and impacts the decisions we do or don’t make, and the influence we do or don’t have on the world.

What is your life purpose?

I know it’s a pretty astounding question, but it’s worth considering for some important reasons.

Research has begun to explore how having a purpose in life may relate to well-being and physical health.