There’s a bravery to Right Livelihood. When we step into good work, we create space for others to step into good work, too. Lama Surya Das says we are “surrounded by men and women who want to do more for others, but don’t know what to do or where to start.” Every small action we take in Right Livelihood, we offer an example for those who want to join in. When we bravely do this work, others join in.

This reminds me of the slogan, “Another world is possible.” When we realize life can be different, we feel a sense of empowerment and freedom. It’s only when we feel resigned to “the way things have always been” that we don’t feel any energy around changing things. I do believe it’s true: another world is always possible. We can always choose to change. And when we change, systems can begin to change, too.

What I love about this is that it helps us see Right Livelihood as more than just our day jobs. We can embody bravery for others in so many ways. We’re examples in the way we show up as volunteers, as parents, as friends, as spouses and partners. So much of what we learn is by watching others. I remember my mom had this corny poem hanging in our house growing up titled, “Children learn what they live.” That’s true. We listen to what people say, but we learn most by what we see them do.

When we practice Right Livelihood, we claim the possibility that everything we do could bring about goodness in the world. (We also accept the responsibility that what we do can harm the world.) When we step into brave action, we give others the permission and even the power to do it in their own lives. And what’s more, we start to feel even more brave in our own lives. We start to trust ourselves, and feel up to the challenge and risk.

Where do you see possibility this week?

Where can you embody possibility for others?

This post is part of my series on practicing the Eightfold Path. Read all my posts on Right Livelihood here.