I can remember sitting at my desk in my bedroom, finishing the last paragraph to an essay for a college application. The prompt allowed me to discuss difficult times in my life and how I used grit in order to overcome them. I knew that the last couple sentences had to create an impact on whoever was to read it, so I wrote down the following:

"But I also know that even though I use a little grit every day, my moment to use it all will come and I hope that it will happen while I am attending Elon. With it, I could help change the world."

I was ecstatic to begin a part of my life where I felt that I finally had the power to change the world. I would be attending one of the best colleges in America and surrounded by professors and advisors who could help me accomplish my goals.

But, over the past year, I've come to understand that "changing the world" doesn't require attending a great school or people to help you reach your goals, all you need is a good heart.

Here are five easy ways that anyone, including you, can help change the world and make it a better place for everyone.

1. Pick up trash

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This doesn't mean that you have to walk to the ends of the earth and pick up every piece of garbage you see. Simply whenever you see trash along the beach, pick it up, or when you dine at a restaurant to clean up after yourself as much as you can.

2. Volunteer

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At the animal shelter, homeless shelter, or even at your local fire station (this one might not be for everybody). Volunteering not only helps those in need, but you can also see the difference your contribution makes.

3. Adoption

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This could mean adopting a dog from a shelter or adopting a child from foster care. Every animal and every child needs a loving home to show that while sometimes the world can be cruel, there are still good people out there.

4. Donate

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Give your blood to the Red Cross, your old clothes to the Salvation Army, food to the homeless shelter, or even donate money to your local church to help fund mission trips. (All of the above are non-profit organizations.)

5. Be kind

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Always treat others the way that you want to be treated. This was the "golden rule" in elementary school, but I think it would serve this world well for it to not just be an elementary school rule. Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect no matter what.

While these five examples may seem simple, even too simple, they help show that it doesn't take much to help change the world. A good heart and a sweet smile can go a long way in this world, especially with how it is today. So pick up trash when you see it, volunteer, adopt, donate, and just be kind. You'll be surprised with how different the world will start to look.