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I raised my daughter to value making a difference over making money. Now I question that lesson.

I modeled a life of service for my daughter. I'm proud of her, but I worry about the financial and personal costs we both face.

The woman, who founded a nonprofit for rescuing dogs, reflects on her decision to raise her daughter to prioritize making a difference over financial gain. Both she and her daughter, Jordan, have founded their own nonprofits, focusing on rescuing dogs and supporting women's education respectively. Despite the challenges and stress involved in both their philanthropic endeavors, the author admits to questioning whether she should have pushed her daughter towards a more stable career that pays a salary, rather than a passion.

Raised in apartheid South Africa, the author herself grappled with feelings of guilt for leaving South Africa without attempting to change the system. She instilled in Jordan the mantra to "make a difference" and "leave a footprint on the planet" from an early age. As Jordan grew into a young adult, she took up yoga teacher training while also volunteering in Cambodia, later founding a nonprofit for empowering young women through yoga retreats.

The author finds joy in her daughter's journey, cherishing moments such as the children's laughter in Sri Lanka she witnessed during a yoga class. However, she also faces financial struggles and the uncertainty of running small nonprofits. The author reflects on her own physical toll from rescuing dogs and the lack of sleep she and Jordan endure.

Ultimately, she expresses uncertainty about whether she made the right choice in encouraging her daughter to prioritize purpose over a stable paycheck.

Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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