While I love working with brokers and clients and get a real sense of achievement when helping people secure their dream or home, or make steps toward securing their financial future, it’s my philanthropic work that has injected a real sense of meaning and purpose into my life.

Some people commit to “giving back” as a token effort, because it makes them look good and boosts their business’ credibility. But that’s not the reason I encourage business owners to take on philanthropic projects.

I know the difference these collaborations have made to my life, and I want others to experience that amazing feeling for themselves.

So, here’s my two cents: any business owner can begin living a purpose-led, meaningful live through philanthropy.

The first step is to zero in on the types of causes and organisations that are important to you. I’ve supported many amazing causes over the years, with all of them resonating with me in some way. One of the first charities I supported was The Royal Blind Society (now Vision Australia), which will always hold a special place in my heart because my younger brother was born with a degenerative disease that often results in blindness.

You might have lost a loved one to cancer, or feel passionate about helping single mums get back on their feet. As long as you connect with a cause you’re really passionate about, you’re heading in the right direction.

Next, consider how your own values and beliefs might align with particular organisations. If you’re Christian, you might like to support a group that shares these
beliefs. Or perhaps you’re passionate about sustainability or animal welfare, so you want to seek out a charity that embodies these values. This will help you stay motivated, because you really believe in the work they’re doing, and enhance your own experience as you can feel that you’re really making a meaningful difference.

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Remember, philanthropy doesn’t always mean parting with your hard-earned cash. Some people might prefer volunteering on the ground. For these professionals, donating their time to a cause or even as a mentor can be an effective way to make a difference in a community. Others might not have the time or the skills to do this work themselves, and may decide that donating some of their earnings is a better use of their money and time.

However, don’t underestimate the enormity of experiencing firsthand the work your chosen organisation does. For me, writing a cheque was never enough. I still needed to feel like I was more involved at a more grassroots level, and get my hands dirty. That’s one of the reasons I became involved with the Human Kind Project (and its charity partner, The Hunger Project), and travelled to Malawi for what turned out to be a life-changing experience I will never forget.

Working with the Human Kind Project has given me the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on this world, and to know that I’ve been part of creating meaningful, sustainable change. I’ve raised more than $130,000 for this amazing organisation – I have a big, bold goal of raising $200k by 2020 – and I’ve had the opportunity to witness what this means for local communities too.

For all the difference you may make to your chosen organisation, cause or community, the thing you’ll be most surprised by is the change it sparks in you.

Philanthropy has helped guide me toward living a purpose-led life – in my business, my personal relationships, and in my efforts to give back to others. I sincerely hope you are able to experience this feeling for yourself, because it truly is priceless.

Nancy Youssef is an award-winning finance broker, mentor, philanthropist, and founder of Classic Finance and Classic Mentoring.