“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead.

There are some issues in the world that are outside of our sphere of control or influence. We have to accept that we have limited opportunity or chance to change some things. Additionally, some things that are within our control can seem so big and overwhelming that we put off taking action. We can procrastinate, over think things and never make a start or make any progress towards making things better.

However, it’s always worth remembering that when we do take action and make positive contributions to society, it helps to make the world a better place to live in.

With this in mind, here is a favourite story of mine that can inspire us all to make a start, to take action and make a difference in the world.

The Starfish Story by Loren Eiseley.

One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it back into the ocean.

Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The boy replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.”

“Son,” the man said, “don’t you realise there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!”

After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then smiling at the man, he said… “it made a difference for that one.”

We can make the choice to focus on the things we can control to make our own environments as good as they can be. We can all play a part in making the world a better place. Every day we have the power and choice about where we place our focus and energy. It’s within our gift about how and where we make a positive difference in the world.

With this in mind, I’ve given some thought to how we can all play a part in making the world a better a place. We can: –

  • All take small actions and collectively create a positive ripple to counter the negativity, fear and nastiness that is prevalent in the world sometimes.
  • Look at ways we make our environments and part of the world more pleasant. This can be as simple as picking up some litter on our daily walk.
  • Carefully consider the impact on others of our actions and decisions before we speak or act.
  • Have greater empathy for people suffering challenges and hardship.
  • Be present and give people our full attention. As part of this we can decide to listen more than we talk. This will mean the people we interact with will feel heard, valued and important.
  • Look for what’s positive about people and situations.
  • Be encouraging and supportive of other people’s endeavours and happy for their success and achievements. Give credit to people when it’s due.
  • Be nice to people.

 
This week, why not pause for a few moments to reflect and consider what action you can take to help make your part of the world a better place.

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