Are you connecting with the world around you? It's normal to be concerned about the effect you have on the world. You may look for opportunities to help others, but are often unsure where to start. Here's a good strategy: make it your business to build people and help them improve themselves (and that includes yourself). You can have a much stronger effect on people this way than if you did hundreds of hours of secluded community service. Start by improving yourself and developing the strengths that can set an example for others. Then use your strengths to help others develop their own. You don't even have to wait! What are you already good at? Take that skill and put it to use for the good of your community, or teach it to someone else. For a better world, do less FOR other people, and do more WITH them.  ¶ Tuesday, November 28, 2006