Milton had been laid off for years but was so ignored and unnoticed by his colleagues and superiors that no one saw fit to inform him. The only reason he continued to show up at work was because he still got paid, thanks to a glitch in the payroll system! 

Now, Milton is an extreme example, but he does illustrate how negatively the work we do on a daily basis can make us feel if it’s not gratifying.  He demonstrates what can result when your skills or potential are underused, go unnoticed and when your work doesn’t allow you to feed your passions. Not everyone has the luxury of finding that perfect job or career, the one that checks all the boxes and fulfills your passions and goals. Fortunately, there is something you can do to rid yourself of this drudgery. It’s not found in a magic pill, nor will it be found in an eBook at the affordable cost of only $19.99! The solution to finding work you enjoy that gives you a sense of purpose is through volunteering. There are hundreds of organizations seeking individuals to contribute their time and efforts in a variety of ways. When you volunteer, it’s not only the organization and the population it serves who profit; it’s a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Heidi Tsao is a volunteer with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind(CNIB), The Santa Claus Parade and Not Far From The Tree.  She has come to realize that “just as with personal relationships, where you can't be all things to one person, you can't expect all your work fulfillment from one position either.”  Her various volunteer positions allow her to express her creativity, something she’s unable to do in her day job. Her volunteer work allows her to think of new ways to bring organizational goals and ideas to life.

Volunteering has been a part of Jennifer Hingston’s life from an early age. She explains that being part of theNational Ballet of Canada’s volunteer committee “provides me with a different outlet for my creativity.” This position also allows her to satisfy her interest for this beautiful art form.

You too can find opportunities that make you happy, giving you the chance to showcase your skills and allowing you to reach your full potential. All that’s required on your part is a bit of reflection and some effort.