Ever since I was in high school, I always had the dream of wanting to change the world. The world right now is so full of disagreement, cruelty, and hatred. I get up everyday and watch the news just to see negative things that are happening around the world. It is so hard to change the whole world, no one has that much power and there will always be evil. I may not be able to change the world, but I can change my world.

Here are just a few ways to change the world you live in:

1. Smile at strangers

This is so important, because you never know what other people are going through. Even if you don't know someone, always offer them a smile. That might be just what they need in their day. Smiles have the ability to change anyones day around and brighten their world.

2. Go on a mission trip

Mission trips are an amazing way to change the world. I went on a mission trip during high school and it was the most impactful thing I have ever been a part of. I was able to spread the love of God to children who don't always feel loved and seeing their reactions were just priceless. Being able to help people that are less fortunate than I is something that I will always be willing to do. I recommend everyone go on a mission trip at least once, it will change your life along with many others.

3. Pay it forward

Pay for someone's sandwich or coffee at the deli. Little acts of kindness are so important. Do a favor for a couple of people that you know may need some help. Do this favor out of the kindness of you heart, without expecting anything back. Tell these people that instead of paying you back, to pay it forward. If people keep paying it forward then a lot of lives will be changed as an outcome.

4. Be Kinder

Everyone gets stressed sometimes, it is bound to happen. Even if you are stressed, or having a bad day, don't take it out on the waiter who is taking too long, or the barista that messed up your order. It is likely that if you are rude to those people then they will take it out on someone else by being rude to them. Always try to show kindness to people no matter what the situation. If you show kindness to all people, then there will be positive outcomes in the long run, and the world will be a happier place.

5. Be yourself

This is so important so I saved it for last. In the world we live in today, it is so important to just be yourself. We were each placed here for a reason and have a purpose. You can begin to change the world just by being yourself. No one is made alike, so you can change someone's world just by being yourself