Why “Doing Something” Isn’t the Same as Doing Something That Works

Why “Doing Something” Isn’t the Same as Doing Something That Works

⏱️ 4 min read

“Don’t mistake activity for achievement.”
- John Wooden

TL;DR

It’s easy to confuse motion with progress, especially when emotions run high. But not every action has impact. In a time of constant crises and performative posts, we need to ask: Is what we’re doing actually working? Or are we just doing something to feel less helpless?

When Action Becomes the Endgame

We live in an era of endless outrage and call-to-action fatigue. When the news cycle overwhelms, people reach for the fastest fix posting a hashtag, buying a t-shirt, forwarding a petition. It feels good. It looks good. But the truth is, many of these actions are more symbolic than systemic.

This isn’t about shaming those who do something. It’s about recognizing that “doing something” isn’t inherently good if it doesn’t produce meaningful change. In fact, it can distract from better options ones that require more effort, intention, and coordination.

The Data Behind the Disconnect

According to a 2023 survey by the American Bar Association, while 70% of respondents consider public understanding of how government works to be important, only 46% believe the U.S. is performing well in this area. This gap between the perceived importance of civic knowledge and the belief in its effective dissemination suggests a disconnect that could impact civic participation (Source: https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/civics/new-study-finds-alarming-lack-of-civic-literacy-among-americans?).

This disconnect between the recognized importance of civic understanding and the belief in its effective dissemination undermines long-term civic participation. When people don't see results, even symbolic ones, engagement drops. We don't just need more action; we need better tools to help people see the impact of their actions.

What We’re Doing at LiveImpact.io

LiveImpact.io exists to close this gap. We’re not here to tell people what to do. We’re building a platform that shows what works.

When you take action on LiveImpact.io, that action is tracked, aggregated, and counted alongside others who care about the same cause. No more shouting into the void. You’ll see how your choice adds up, who else is involved, and where change is happening.

It’s civic action made visible and measurable.

If You Believe in Better, Help Us Build It

We’re building LiveImpact.io with people like you folks who are tired of empty gestures and ready for real outcomes.

You can help us get there by supporting our launch with a one-time $10 donation at https://www.gofundme.com/liveimpact.

Every dollar brings us closer to a platform that actually works for the people doing the work.

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“We’re not here to guilt people into action. We’re here to make meaningful action feel possible again.”
- Rick Zwetsch, Founder

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