Making a difference in the development of people in the world is such an important drive for me and the work that I do. I meet amazing human beings and get inspired by the changes people make in their attitudes and drive for change and a flourishing life. It brings a smile to my face! But I also get to meet so many sad, frustrated, lonely and stuck individuals who are living dysfunctional unhappy lives.
A lot of people are disheartened by the perceived current state of the world – the immense amount of strife and suffering going on around us. Remember the saying by Ghandi – “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
You and I might not have the ability to change the entire world for the better but we can make great changes within ourselves. This in turn creates a ripple effect for the good on others around us. And they will affect others in turn, and so on. I love the thought of being the ripple effect! So what I’m interested in is what can we all do to be the start of that ripple effect! Here are some quick ideas:
1. Be Kind and Caring
This one seems like a no-brainer, but it’s amazing to notice how often we forget this, when it comes to accepting others as they are. Whenever you have the chance – BE KIND.
Thank people, notice people, give positive feedback, help others out, really listen to others and ask with a real interest as to how people are doing.
2. Be Tolerant and Understanding
This is another one that people tend to have difficulty with. This doesn’t mean that you tolerate poor behaviour or abuse, but rather stop and remember that everyone doesn’t think or act like you. The world isn’t right or wrong based on your world view.
Everyone has walked their journey to where they are today so giving people a bit of slack now and then is important to remember. You can dislike someone’s behaviour, but still like them as a person.
We’re all making our way through life, trying to make sense of things while juggling a million different responsibilities, anxieties, hopes and dreams… and sometimes that gets really hard.
We slip up, we can’t always be the person we really want to be, or the person our partner/child/etc. would be happiest with. So be tolerant and understanding.
3. Be Sincere Be Authentic
Most people can all tell when someone is being fake with us, and it’s not a great experience.
Being fake is insincere – praising someone when you don’t mean it, being super-friendly to someone you can’t stand, buying friendships, talking behind people’s backs, gossiping….
There’s a lot to be said for authenticity and sincerity.
4. Check in on people – ask if they are OK.
There are many people suffering in silence, too ashamed to say anything is wrong in their life due to fear of being a failure or being seen as weak. Connection with people is so important and we are slowly losing the true meaning of connection – checking in with people, really listening, giving people your time to just chat, offering help to those who may need a helping hand for a little while.
A conversation can change a person’s day.
That’s how you can change the world, one interaction at a time.
How can you be the start of the ripple effect?
Let’s get in touch and work together to make the change impactful, or you can visit our website to find out more!