Be Different. Be Altruistic.

Why giving is much better than receiving (most of the time)

Sometimes it seems like the majority of people only care about themselves.

It’s infuriating if you’re a sensitive soul.

We’re much more likely to be driven by a desire to make the world better in some way. To be altruistic.

Altruism is a selfless concern for the well-being of others.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent many hours contemplating how to find your voice and try to make a positive difference in the world.

I’m not very outgoing, so I thought I was destined to live my life in the shadows.

It’s taken me a while to realise that one way I can do it is through writing.

This blog and the fiction books I’ve written are a result of that process. Maybe they’ll help to enrich people’s lives in some way. Even if they don’t, I get a lot from the process anyway, so it’s not like I’m losing out.

If you’re thinking about doing something creative to share with the world, here are a few ways you can stand out by doing things differently and being altruistic.

Challenge the Norm

Most people have a narrow focus. They’re only really concerned with themselves and their immediate social circle.

For the most part, they’re caught in a cycle that starts and ends with ‘me.’

As creatives, we’re perfectly wired up to do tip this on its head. We can aim to add value to the lives of others.

When you start to do this, something extraordinary happens. You start seeing value in your life that you never noticed before. Reciprocity begins.

Exceptional things happen to your state of mind too. Over the past few years, since letting my creative side flourish, I feel like I’ve grown from a tiny acorn into an oak tree.

Still quiet — silent even — but much more strong and vital.

When you begin to embrace altruism and creativity, you also become less afraid to promote the work you do. You lose some of your self consciousness. You start to think “hang on a minute — maybe people will like my stuff”.

This gives you the confidence to go out there and market it (more on that subject later).

Silent Observers

Introverts are naturally skilled observers.

We pick up on details that most people miss.

That’s not by accident. It’s an inherent talent that you can learn to channel.

Another thing most creative introverts have in spades is emotional intelligence. It’s likely that you find it easy to identify the needs of others around you. The kind of things that other people overlook.

Your unique perspective can be a gift to the world — especially if you can combine it with some kind of artistic expression.

If you’re not artistic, then consider other roles such as offering talking therapy, care work, or volunteering in your local community.

Why Altruism Isn’t Just for Saints

Forget the halo and wings — you don’t need them to make a difference.

Offering your skills and time to causes or people can bring an unparalleled satisfaction. The paradox of giving is that you end up receiving — sometimes, in ways you never imagined.

It’s the ripple effect in action. You’ve probably heard it before, but it bears repeating because it’s rooted in reality.

One act of kindness or creativity can set off a chain of events that benefits not just you, but others in your circle and beyond. Picture this: your creative project could inspire someone to take an action they’ve been postponing for years.

Or maybe you’ll create a piece of art that touches someone in a deep emotional way and sets the direction of their life for years to come.

Now, imagine that multiplied. That’s the ripple effect in action.

As a creative introvert, you already know the power of authenticity.

Apply that to acts of kindness and contribute authentic creative work to the world. Authenticity speaks volumes and has a magnetic pull that shallow actions can never replicate.

Don’t Be Afraid To Market Yourself

The idea of “selling myself” was one thing that always held me back from putting my creative work out for public view. I used to see self promotion and marketing as, well, a bit yucky, to be honest.

Now I realise that while some types of marketing are like that, it doesn’t have to be. In the digital age, you can be authentic, ethical, and still promote the things you create.

Since starting out on this new path, I’ve learned a few things about how to catch people’s attention and get myvoice heard, in a way that isn’t repellently over-the-top, cheesy, or overly salesy.

Copywriting techniques such as pattern interrupts, neuro-linguistic programming, and emotional language help to get people engaged. Some people use them manipulatively (some of the big advertising agencies) but you don’t need to do that.

Blogging is the perfect example. Engaging with people on social media is another. You don’t have to be like a sleazy second-hand car salesman to get attention these days. Authenticity is much more effective.

If you’ve got any ideas on how to market your creative projects in an authentic way, I’d love to hear them. Let me know in the comments section below.