My summer before entering freshman year of high school was filled with excitement as I anticipated a new chapter in my life. What I didn’t realize at the time was the significant amount of stress hidden beneath the joy and enthusiasm I felt about my upcoming high school experience. I now understand that my happiness stemmed from unrealistic expectations I had set for myself.

The extensive lists of “things I should do and things I shouldn’t do” created immense pressure, consuming much of my life. I had trapped myself in a cycle of reward and punishment based on my flawed definitions of success and failure. Unconsciously, I found myself in an embarrassing state of constantly measuring and comparing myself to others.

As a result, I often felt guilt and fear whenever I took risks or stepped outside my comfort zone. I was engaged in a relentless struggle with my own perceptions of success. Fortunately, I discovered the joy of helping others through volunteering. My passion for giving back gradually helped me break free from my old habits. In other words, I began to truly accept and view myself as a contribution. To be a contribution means to move away from obsessively pursuing happiness through personal achievements and instead seek joy through kindness and commitment.

Imagine yourself as a pebble in a pond. You may not be the smoothest or the largest stone, but even your smallest actions can create positive ripples in the larger pond. No matter what situation you find yourself in, be willing to dedicate yourself to helping others.

When you start focusing on making a difference, you will begin to experience abundance and possibility. Self-centered thoughts will naturally transform into genuine gratitude, collaboration, and impact. Instead of constantly worrying about outcomes, you will gain immense strength from being empowered by your actions and wanting to share the valuable rewards of giving back.

Your aspirations will shift from emphasizing the importance of your individual actions to creating a shared purpose in the world. By orienting yourself toward generosity and selflessness, you will open yourself to a new world of possibilities, opportunities, and happiness.

Since embracing this mindset, I have noticed small yet significant improvements in various aspects of my life. Taking risks and pursuing my passions have become liberating endeavors. I have also become more grateful, curious, and open.

Contributions are something anyone can give and receive, and there are countless ways to contribute every day. Therefore, remember that you can be a gift to others and possess the power to change the world. Start today, start now, and ask yourself, “What can I give today?”

Youna Choi is currently a sophomore at Cornell University majoring in Hotel Administration. She enjoys playing sports, playing the guitar, cooking, and spending time with friends and family. Youna plans to pursue a career in hospitality management while continuing to serve her community and aspire to be a mentor to others.