Personally, I think it goes hand in hand regardless of what societal issues are most important for you. In my case, I'm a big dog lover (cats too, but I'm more of a "dog person"). There's plenty of "micro" opportunities for helping abused and neglected dogs such as volunteering with rescue groups or even adopting a pet of your own.
On a "macro" level the best way to make a difference is to have influence and resources. This allows you to leverage your financial/professional success for the greater good. In my case, I contribute money to groups that rescue and find homes for abused and neglected dogs. I use my fairly significant professional reputation to network and provide exposure on behalf of charities.
I'll expand on this thought later--basically, there's no reason at all why your own good and the greater good of society can't work hand in hand.
|