Make a mark.

It’s what we all want to do, in our own way, isn’t it? Whether it’s by achieving some sort of fame, becoming successful in business, saving lives, saving souls, serving our country, or raising the next generation, we want to leave some imprint of ourselves on the world.

But how? How do we make a difference?

Here are some thoughts on how you might leave the world a little better than you found it:

“Just do what you do best.”

—Red Auerbach, professional basketball coach

“My mother drew a distinction between achievement and success. She said that achievement is the knowledge that you have studied and worked hard and done the best that is in you. Success is being praised by others. That is nice but not as important or satisfying. Always aim for achievement and forget about success.”

—Helen Hayes, actress

“Thoughts lead on to purposes, purposes go forth in action, actions form habits, habits decide character, and character fixes our destiny.”

—Tryon Edwards, theologian

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”

—Ralph Waldo Emerson, essayist

“To spend life for something which outlasts it.”

—William James, psychologist

“You get whatever accomplishment you are willing to declare.”

—Mal Pancoas

“The journey is the reward.”

—Chinese proverb