How do I deal with feeling like I'm not contributing anything meaningful?

Feeling like you're not contributing anything meaningful to the world is a common source of existential Anxiety disorder that often stems from narrow definitions of what constitutes valuable contribution. You might be measuring your impact against dramatic examples of people who adapting to change the world through major innovations, activism, or achievements, while dismissing the smaller but equally important ways you affect others' lives. The truth is that meaningful contribution happens at many levels - from being a supportive friend or family member to doing your job well, volunteering in your community, or simply treating others with kindness and respect. Sometimes this feeling comes from Major depressive disorder, which can make it difficult to see the value in your daily activities and Interpersonal relationship. You might dismiss your efforts to maintain your mental health, support loved ones, or contribute to your workplace as not counting as real contributions because they're not dramatic or widely recognized. The pressure to find your unique finding purpose or calling can also contribute to this feeling, especially if you're unsure about your direction or if your interests don't align with conventional ideas about meaningful work. Social media can intensify this by showing you examples of people who appear to be making significant impacts while you feel stuck in ordinary routines. However, meaning and contribution are highly personal and don't always look impressive from the outside. You might be contributing in ways you don't fully recognize - through your presence in others' lives, your work that serves important functions even if it's not glamorous, or your efforts to grow and heal that inspire others around you. Consider that some of the most meaningful contributions are invisible - the conversation that helps someone feel less alone, the reliable presence that provides stability for others, or the small acts of kindness that brighten someone's day. Your contribution doesn't need to be unique or world-changing to be valuable. Focus on how you can positively impact the people and situations directly around you rather than trying to solve global problems or achieve recognition. Remember that living authentically, treating others well, and taking care of yourself are forms of contribution that make the world a better place, even if they don't result in obvious external achievements.