“I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; I will not refuse to do something I can do.” – Helen Keller. It is an episode that continues to play in my mind. It was not too long ago that I was waiting at the Delhi airport to catch a flight when I heard a bunch of young executives discuss the political and economic scenario in our country.
Everyone in the group seemed to be of the opinion that this country didn’t have much hope to offer. They based their arguments on the recent incidents of cold-blooded rape, protests, corruption charges and the Facebook arrest incident. Even before I could decide to intervene, something happened. The bunch was joined by another young man, I presume a colleague.
A sharp, confident and well-read man, he was different from the rest. He had something positive to say against each of those negative arguments. In fact, in no time he managed to convince his entire group that the country was at the cusp of change and it was the best time to be optimistic. I was wowed. What I saw made me smile for rest of my day and got me thinking. Talk about fighting any issue, solving a problem or a scenario, it is so common to hear most people say, “What can I do alone?” “I am just one person”. I am one of those who believe that every drop makes an ocean – a drop is the identity of the ocean! .
So, this episode at the airport only reaffirmed my belief. One young man had the power to change the perception of seven to eight people. Now, each of them can bring about similar changes in others. Each of us has it in him or her to make a difference. India wouldn’t have been a free nation if that one man we call Mahatma Gandhi didn’t think he had it in him to bring about change. All revolutions across the world have seen one inspired man or woman leading the crowd.
In the world of business too, you have innumerable examples of how one determined person turned around an organisation. It took one Steve Jobs to change the fortune of Apple. When we talk about making a difference, the problem is that we think big – society, country or world. Real change always starts small. It starts with family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, office and then it gradually takes on the power to effect larger change. It starts with you. Let’s look at the workplace, for instance.
Do you remember doing something differently with your work? When did you change or question the way a work is being carried out? Before you crib about a problem, do you try to solve it first? Do you take initiatives to bring about a positive change in the office environment? Do you innovate? If your answer is yes, great! If not, then why not? What stops you from being the messenger of change?Confidence is such a wonderful precious thing.
Nurture it, protect it because it takes a second to loose and a long time to get it back! In my long career I have seen many individuals curb their instincts simply because they are not confident about bringing their ideas to the fore. That is primarily also the reason why many choose to sit in a corner and complain, rather than do something about the problem. When you believe in yourself, the perception is infectious. You will soon find see that others too will see you as an inspiration, as someone positive and someone worth emulating.
As mentioned earlier, I am a firm believer that each individual can make a difference. I want each of you to believe in it as well, believe in yourself, in your ability to make world a better place to live & enjoy. Because you have the power. And make the start with yourself – be the change you want to see in the world. Confidence is the only differentiator between the achievers and not so successful despite having all the necessary skills/knowledge. Go for it! Live life…….enjoy every moment and make a difference.