One of the big lies in the world of social change is that to do good, you must feel bad. Somewhere along the way, we absorbed this idea that making a positive impact means pushing ourselves to the edge of exhaustion and operating in a state of constant stress. If you’re not verging on burnout and overwhelm, you must not be working hard enough. If you actually enjoy the work, you must be selfish, indulgent, or insincere in some way.
This is not only false—it’s toxic.
It creates a cycle of depletion in ourselves and the world. It drives passionate people to pour out their energy faster than they can replenish it, leading to disillusionment and collapse. And it sends the message to others that if they want to help, they must surrender their own peace and well-being as well.
I believe the most revolutionary, world-changing, positive thing any of us can do is simply to love our work, to love our lives. When we genuinely love our lives, we tap into a renewable source of energy. Instead of constantly running on guilt, obligation, or adrenaline, we draw from joy, curiosity, and purpose.
This isn’t selfish. It’s sustainable self-care.
People who are deeply fulfilled bring more creativity, patience, and resilience to the challenges they face. They can stay in the game for decades, not just years. Loving your life also directly challenges the very systems many of us are working to change. Consumer culture thrives on dissatisfaction. Oppressive systems benefit when people are too tired, isolated, or hopeless to imagine alternatives. Choosing joy, rest, and connection is a quiet but potent act of resistance.
And perhaps most importantly, loving your life is contagious. When others see you living with vitality and purpose, they will want some of what you are having and get in the game themselves.
You do NOT have to sacrifice your peace to do good. In fact, as far as I’m concerned, if it doesn’t feel good most of the time, it’s probably not doing nearly as much good as you think it is.
Free coaching sessions for August and September are open!
If you’re feeling burned out, overwhelmed, stuck, lost, or jaded and could use some support, I offer one free coaching session to anyone who is interested. This is your opportunity to: 1) explore what you most want for your life, 2) declare what you want to offer the world, and 3) move past whatever’s been standing in your way.
Peter Schulte
I help aspiring changemakers do good in the world and feel good in the process.