What can one person do?
We often ask this question when faced with insurmountable odds or unfathomable injustice.
In recent years, many are asking themselves that question around how to combat climate change, homophobia, gun violence, or healthcare inequity – you can actually pick about a hundred given the state of our world today.
When I start to lose hope, I remind myself that many of the world’s most successful movements, non-profits, and social enterprises were started by ordinary people. Usually by one person, maybe two people,who saw a need.
People like….
Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action (gun control)
Candice Lightner, founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Saint Teresa of Calcutta, founder of Missionaries of Charity
Ian and Brittany Bentley, founders of Parker Clay
Oprah Winfrey (yes, she was once just an ordinary news reporter)
Sojourner Truth
Greta Thunberg, climate activist
Nelson Mandela
And many more individuals I have recently been reading about in the amazing book, Citizens: Why the Key to Fixing Everything is All of Us (highly recommend!)
But then….
This person or those people connected with others to make their vision a reality. They were able to rally like-minded individuals and start a movement. That is the power of a team.
This is why I am committed to helping every single person understand that their voice matters. When you speak up, you are a magnet for those who see the world the way you do and want to join together with you to solve complex problems.
If no one person speaks out, others who believe the same thing can’t find each other and make change. (TWEET THIS!)
I have long dreamed about creating a movement called One Dollar DIfference. Donating $1 might not seem like enough on its own to benefit anyone. But what if you can inspire 800,000 people to all donate $1 to cause at the same time? Or each donate one hour of time to a community effort? That is an impact!
Empathy is what enables us to connect and engage each other. To solve these tough problems together. To make a difference.
Never be afraid to stand up and act as “just one.”. In truth, you rarely are ever alone. You just have to connect with others to have the impact you desire
If you want your team to more effectively bring the ideas of “just one” to life, I can help! Let’s chat about an empathy workshop or talk to boost collaboration, innovation, and performance – and make magic happen!
Photo credit: Guardian ng
