In this final post on practicing Right Livelihood, here’s one final word of advice: just do your best. There are so many reasons why practicing Right Livelihood is complicated. Some of us feel stuck in jobs we may not believe in or agree with, but we desperately need the paycheck. And at the moment, we don’t have any other options. Some of us spent a long time getting trained for a job, only to realize we don’t feel called to that work. But we’re still paying off student loans! Switching into an entirely new career just isn’t in the cards right now.

Undoubtedly, some of us stay in our jobs for the insurance, for the flexibility, for the guarantee of a promotion that brings us some freedom. Others are biding time trying to get that side hustle up and running. Lots of people are helping pay someone’s way through school. Parents are saving for their kids’ college. People are paying down their medical expenses.

In all these situations and more, stepping out into something new feels like a risk because it is a risk.

And it’s ok if you can’t take it right now.

Here’s what I truly believe: if you want to make a change, and you’re willing to make a change, eventually, the universe will back you up. If you show up and pay attention, and put in the work, something will shift. A sliver of opportunity will open. You will know when the time is right, if you’re watching. You will know when to jump. And you also likely know when it’s just not the right time. But only you can decide what’s possible for you right now.

Regardless, there are plenty of ways to put Right Livelihood into action, even if you can’t bail on your day job. Every day you can ask yourself, “What good work is right in front of me?” Every single day, you can find some small way to bring a little more compassion into the world. If you’re stuck in a job you hate, maybe you can improve the work environment. You can be amazing to your co-workers. You can mentor someone. Especially if you’re in a position of power, you can make room for women or people of color to be seen and acknowledged for their work. You can promote them.

Similarly, you can change some policies, or advocate for better benefits. You could start a recycling program in the building, or get everyone to pitch in for a good cause. Small acts of kindness. Little compassion rebellions.

Maybe Right Livelihood for you right now might take place entirely outside of the office. Maybe you volunteer somewhere, or vow to be a better neighbor or friend. Where can you show empathy? Offer kindness? Give support? The possibilities are endless.

The truth is, everything counts. Right Work, Right Livelihood, extends far beyond your desk job. It’s a way of life.

Above all, at the end of the day, just do your best.

(Also, stay tuned next week for our next step, Right Effort!)

Want to read more about Right Livelihood? Find all my posts on practicing it here.