What happens when Doing Well meets Doing Good?

"Success isn't just about money; it's about making a positive difference"

Can we do well and do good too??

In a world we lived in today where success is often measured by financial wealth and personal fame, there exists a philosophy that transcends beyond material prosperity.??

It is the idea of doing good and doing well—a delicate balance between personal success and making a positive impact on the world around us.?

Doing good refers to mindfulness and acts of kindness that extend beyond human interactions, encompassing efforts to improve the well-being of all living beings, including animals. It involves helping those in need, giving back to society, and striving to make the world a better place for everyone, including our fellow creatures.?

Doing well, on the other hand, refers to achieving financial prosperity, professional achievement, and personal fulfilment.?

Case studies and Examples?

For many, the pursuit of wealth and success may seem conflicting with the idea of doing good. However, numerous case studies and examples demonstrate that these two objectives can coexist harmoniously.?

Take, for instance, my former employer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Bill Gates. Through his pioneering work with Microsoft, Gates amassed immense wealth and influence. He chose to devote a significant portion of his fortune to combat inequality, poverty, and diseases on a global scale, unmatched by others.?

Most recently, I worked alongside Novo Holdings, a prominent life sciences investor known for its financial success. Novo Holdings prioritizes sustainability and social responsibility in its investment strategy, integrating environmental, social, and governance considerations. The company's mission is to create long-term value while positively impacting society and the environment.?

Doing good and doing well starts with you?

Beyond the realm of corporate giants, everyday individuals and families can embody the spirit of doing good and doing well in their own lives. Whether through volunteer work, charitable donations, or environmentally conscious practices, these individuals exemplify the belief that personal success is intertwined with social responsibility.?

Meet the Tan family, a typical Singaporean household living in a modest HDB flat. Despite juggling work and daily expenses, the Tans are dedicated to giving back to their community. They regularly volunteer at the Willing Hearts and The Food Bank Singapore, organize donation drives for underprivileged families, and participate in neighborhood clean-up initiatives. By actively involving their children in these activities, the Tans instill values of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility, teaching them that true fulfillment comes from helping others and contributing to the well-being of society.?

In addition to these acts of kindness, individuals can further embody the principles of doing good and doing well by practicing mindfulness, showing compassion to those around them, and prioritizing their mental health. Doing good and doing well starts with the individual, and these small yet impactful actions can create positive ripples in both personal and professional spheres.?

In the corporate world, a growing number of businesses are embracing the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a means of aligning profit with purpose. In Singapore, companies like The Fashion Pulpit and All Things Green have established thriving brands by incorporating social and environmental initiatives into their business strategies. Through a commitment to sustainability, ethical labor practices, and community involvement, these companies not only appeal to socially conscious consumers but also contribute to meaningful societal change.??

As for myself, I must admit that it was a chance opportunity for me to co-found an impact venture fund in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges faced by migrant workers in Singapore. Our innovative low-cost health insurance package disrupted the sector, leading to its adoption by the Singapore government for all one million migrant workers from India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka after two years of proof of concept (POC) and advocacy. This initiative underscores my unwavering dedication to driving positive change and crafting tangible solutions. Through such initiatives, I aim to inspire other businesses and individuals to prioritize social impact, contributing to the creation of a more equitable and sustainable society?

In conclusion, the idea of Doing Good and Doing Well transcends individual success and encompasses a broader commitment to making the world a better place. Whether through acts of kindness, entrepreneurial endeavors, or corporate responsibility, each of us has the power to leave a meaningful impact on society. ?

As we pursue personal and professional fulfillment, let's remember that true success isn't just about our achievements but also about the positive impact we have on others' lives, which in turn enhances our inner well-being and sense of purpose.?

Whether you are on your path of discovery or seeking purpose in life or simply wanting to unstuck yourself, I invite you to join me on my journey of Doing Well and Doing Good!?