Updated: Feb. 26, 2016
Originally Published: Dec. 1, 2014
My first job was at a career advisory organization called 80,000 Hours, which focuses on guiding individuals who wish to create a positive impact through their professions. Ironically, while I was helping others discover their career paths, I was grappling with my own uncertainties. Through numerous discussions with like-minded individuals, I recognized several misconceptions that had been holding me back from pursuing a fulfilling career that contributes to the greater good. Many others likely share these misunderstandings.
Myth #1: “Making a difference” is only for a select few
When we think about “making a difference,” we often picture roles like doctors, humanitarian aid workers, or therapists. This stereotype led me to believe that impactful careers were reserved for those who actively campaigned or volunteered, possessing the right skill set for charitable work or social services. Unfortunately, this limited view made me feel excluded from the equation.
However, my time at 80,000 Hours revealed that the scope of making a difference is much wider than just charity work or social services. What truly matters is your commitment to contributing to a cause larger than yourself, not merely holding a job with an altruistic title.
Many traditionally “ethical” jobs involve direct interaction with others, but significant change can also occur in less obvious ways. For instance, starting in the corporate sector can equip you with valuable skills such as management or marketing, which can later be applied to meaningful causes. Additionally, pursuing a career in journalism or politics can allow you to amplify important ideas, demonstrating that influence can be a powerful form of altruism. Even high-earning positions in consulting or finance can enable you to donate a substantial portion of your income to effective charities.
I now believe that virtually any skill set can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Myth #2: Doing good requires personal sacrifices
One of my major concerns while contemplating my career was the belief that I had to choose between pursuing my passions and making a difference. I had a strong interest in mathematics and philosophy, and I even considered a Ph.D. in philosophy, which intrigued me but didn’t seem particularly practical. Friends in finance shared similar worries about the perceived disconnect between their interests and their desire to contribute positively to society.
Initially, it felt as though finding a fulfilling career meant sacrificing my enjoyment. However, I have since come to realize that an ethical career doesn’t necessarily entail personal sacrifices. This realization stemmed from a few key insights:
- First, my perspective on enjoyable careers was too narrow. I was focusing on past experiences rather than exploring the myriad of job opportunities available. Research shows that many individuals are unhappy at work because they prioritize the wrong factors—like intrinsic interest and salary—over aspects like mental challenge and daily variety. If you find yourself thinking, “I can only enjoy doing [insert interesting but impractically useful thing here],” consider broadening your search.
- Second, my understanding of what constitutes a meaningful career was limited. I used to think that ethical jobs were confined to charity work, social services, and healthcare. By recognizing that my options were much more diverse, I became more optimistic about finding a fulfilling path.
- Lastly, I hadn’t fully considered how doing good can enhance my happiness. Studies suggest that helping others is one of the most reliable ways to boost your mood, and a sense of contribution is crucial for job satisfaction. Conversely, happy individuals tend to be more productive and successful, enabling them to do even more good in any chosen field.
Myth #3: One person can’t create significant change
At times, I felt disillusioned, unsure of my ability to make a tangible impact on the world. Joining 80,000 Hours transformed my outlook, as I became surrounded by individuals dedicated to maximizing their positive influence through their careers. Learning about historical figures who made a significant impact, like Norman Borlaug—a plant scientist who is credited with saving over a billion people from starvation—was particularly inspiring.
Additionally, I discovered Giving What We Can, 80,000 Hours’ affiliated organization that focuses on identifying the most cost-effective charities. Their research showed me that I could help countless individuals with minimal personal cost. For example, it’s possible to provide a year of healthy life to a child by deworming them for less than a dollar.
This awareness highlighted my privilege; earning a salary above $28,000 places me among the wealthiest 5% globally. While an extra dollar may not affect my life significantly, it can be life-changing for a child in a developing country.
I still occasionally wonder about the impact I can have as one individual, but I now view making a difference as both a remarkable opportunity and a challenge. My privileged position allows me to enhance the lives of others at a relatively low cost.
Summary
In summary, many misconceptions about making a difference can deter individuals from pursuing fulfilling careers. It’s important to recognize that contributing to the greater good is not limited to traditional roles and does not necessarily require personal sacrifices. Understanding the potential for individual impact can empower anyone to seek meaningful work that aligns with their interests and values. For more insights into related topics, check out this informative post on home insemination kits.