Today, there is so much more conversation about social good and living ethically – buying sustainable products, reducing plastic use, giving back in meaningful ways and supporting groups/business/ organizations that empower people, communities, the environment and the world. It’s so good to see the increasing number of people who are living and working in a more conscious and collective way – it gives me so much hope for the future.

Now at the ten-year mark, it’s really interesting to think about what I’ve learned – good and bad – and I want to share that with you. Especially to those thinking about doing their own startup or have their own idea that’s ready for the world.

Here are a few tips I picked up from my own work and the lessons I’ve learned from other social entrepreneurs and change-makers across the world including in Australia, Costa Rica, Nepal, India, Cambodia, Vietnam, Pakistan, Iraq, Honduras, El Salvador & USA.

  1.  Focus: Make sure you are very clear about what you want to do. Sometimes it’s overwhelming when you think about how much needs to be changed on earth to make our impact lighter.
  2. Be precise and have a structured plan: Planning, structure & organization are critical to any organization or business. Great ideas will only flourish if there is organization and efficiency surrounding them.
  3. It’s okay if things don’t happen immediately: In a world that is increasingly used to immediacy and ‘viral’ trends, we sometimes forget that things can take time. It’s okay if your social pages don’t have 10K followers in the first week. It’s okay if things are a little slower than expected. Stay focused and keep your mind on your ultimate goals and be realistic.

Read the full article about social entrepreneurship by Sarah Cowley at Causeartist.