Since 2007, CNN annually airs a television special entitled CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute. This special honors extraordinary individuals who stand head and shoulders above everyone else and contribute a lot to society and make a difference in their communities. A lot of these esteemed individuals are ordinary people who rose to the occasion despite their limitations.
With the present health crisis we’re facing, it won’t come as a surprise if their list consists of people who are working tirelessly on the frontlines facing the dangers of COVID-19 head-on. Regular people who have undergone medical, EMT, or CNA training, servicemen who help maintain peace and order, scientists in search of a cure or vaccine, and essential workers who still report for work despite the health climate among others.
These are the people who are out to make a positive impact in the world today.
But what is it about them that separates them, the wheat, from the chaff? Surely they must possess something that drives them to do what they do for the benefit of those around them.
6 Behavioral Traits Possessed by People Who Make a Positive Impact in the World
1. They spend their time in pursuit of things that give their lives meaning and purpose.
One notable thing about people who make a difference is they have somehow already figured out their purpose in life. People who know what they’re here for are more focused and committed to what they do and see themselves as a small piece of the puzzle that is crucial to completing the bigger picture. They are more driven in fulfilling their calling in life.
2. They constantly do things to improve themselves.
Yes, they know they’re not perfect. They are aware of their flaws, lapses, and limitations, but they don’t let these things deter them from fulfilling what they’re supposed to do. Instead, they work harder at making themselves better, which ultimately benefits those they serve.
3. They engage people in ways that are mutually beneficial.
People who make a difference in the world know that relationships are important and take a higher priority over being right. They understand the power of communication and use it to their advantage to get their message out without being condescending but rather approaching each topic with an open mind and a willingness to see things from different points of view. They are aware that they don’t know everything, and they take each discussion and engagement as opportunities to educate and be educated.
4. They humbly accept and acknowledge critique.
Humility is a trait that is very misunderstood. It is often seen as a sign of weakness. It is often associated with meekness, which is described as gentle and obedient. Take a look around you. You probably don’t notice it but there’s a lot of false sense of humility going around because people don’t truly understand it.
Humility is simply the honest assessment and evaluation of oneself — not thinking of yourself more highly than you ought to. Such is the case of those who desire to effect change. They don’t place themselves above anyone nor do they see themselves as beyond correction and even rebuke. They take critique as an opportunity to become a better human being so that they can serve people more efficiently and effectively.
5. They do not withhold knowledge and information from people.
You know how most experts and professionals keep secrets to their success. Well, people who are sincere about making the world a better place remain truthful and transparent, not withholding information that will improve the living conditions of those around them. They don’t see their expertise and knowledge as wares to be sold.
6. They take people with them on their way to the top.
In a world where almost everyone is looking out for number one, it is a breath of fresh air to see people who don’t step on people’s backs to get to where they are. While our worldly nature dictates that we abandon all reason and just go after what we want, those who are genuinely compassionate will lift people up as they go higher. They’re not satisfied with only their personal growth but find a greater sense of fulfillment and meaning in seeing others grow, too.
Anybody can be a hero. You can be one, too. All it takes is a shift in paradigms and a renewing of mindsets. Easier said than done, yes, but greatness is already ingrained in your being. You just need to draw it out. Be the hero that this world desperately needs now.
