“Everyone can do simple things to make a difference, and every little bit really does count.” Stella McCartney.

Dr Jane Goodall, who died in October, aged 91, devoted her life to the study and conservation of chimpanzees and the other great apes. Through her pioneering ways to study them, Goodall discovered that chimps used tools, created complex societies and could be so aggressive they could even kill one another.

Her work made waves amongst her fellow researchers but the public responded enthusiastically to her revelations. Earlier this year, she was recognised with a Medal of Freedom by then US President, Joe Biden, this is in addition to her damehood in the UK and other international plaudits.

Jane Goodall said the following quote about changing the world, which resonated with me:

“You can not get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

This quote emphasizes the significance of individual actions in shaping the world. It highlights that everyone has a role to play in making a positive impact and that we must consciously choose the kind of difference we wish to create.

Making a positive difference in the world is an important part of life to many of us. We want to feel that we have made a positive and unique contribution to help make the world a better place. I sometimes think that we never really get to know and understand the full impact that we have on other’s lives with our positive actions and the ripple effect they create.

We don’t fully appreciate the impact our supportive words have when someone is feeling nervous. A simple act like smiling at someone when they are feeling down can have a positive influence as can carrying out random acts of kindness.

We create ripples constantly by our actions. For instance. each time we buy products it supports the economy and helps to create and sustain jobs. A carefully crafted presentation that we deliver to a colleague or team may inspire them to try a new approach or develop new skills. If we set out with an intention to create positive outcomes and ripples then we are likely to fulfil that objective.

It could be that you have a conversation with a relative, colleague or friend that helps to increase their energy or motivation. It may be that you pass on a piece of knowledge or information that develops someone’s thinking and sparks some new ideas and/or creativity.

Alternatively, you may create the space and right environment to listen to someone outline some thoughts and ideas they have to solve a challenge. In doing so, you might help them get some clarity about the steps they need to take.

Someone that has suffered some disappointment or had their confidence dented may have their spirits lifted by the positive words of encouragement that you offer them at that the right moment. In doing so you may provide them with the belief and strength to persevere and to quickly bounce back.

We all have the ability to make a positive contribution and make a difference to our personal environments and our part of the world in our own unique way. It is a choice.

As Sir Winston Churchill once said “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” We can all choose to have a great attitude and to create positive ripples and spread good energy.

This week, why not take a few moments to reflect and consider some ways that you can make a difference and create some positive ripples in your environments.

To arrange a free no obligation consultation, please contact Stephen Pauley via the contact form or by e mail: Stephen@befirstclass.co.uk