What kind of impact do you want to have?

Many of us are much concerned about what others say and think about us. “I am sure they don’t like me.” “Is she upset with me?” Thoughts like that make people lose their sleep, totally focusing on themselves.

But we pay little attention to the other side of that equation: The impact we have on other adults.

Everything you say and everything you do has an impact. It could be a big impact or a small one. Immediate or longer-term. But the impact is always there.
People with children do their best to be good role models, but surprisingly often tend to forget that role in the company of other adults.

So, what can we do about that?

• Step one: Be aware.
  Be aware of your own power.
  You spread seeds of impact whether you want to or not.
• Step two: You have a choice.
  Make sure you spread as many good seeds as possible, and as few bad ones as you can.
• Step three: With power comes responsibility.
  All adults have power and responsibility. We have a responsibility to be forces for good. That is the essence of Maturity. 
  However, many refuse to live up to that responsibility. 

Should you think about what you say and do all the time?

No, of course not. You cannot do the right thing all the time or contemplate every word you mutter. That would lead to overwhelm and self-censorship, but you can consider your words and acts more often than not.
Like thinking “What does this person need from me?” Instead of giving people what they want, which is not the same thing. And not always useful.

When commenting or sharing something on social media, even clicking a like – ask yourself “Is this helpful?”

Politicians and CEOs with much power need to mind their words all the time. Most of us are not in that position, but use the power you have wisely. Spread good and useful seeds.

Everyone has some agency in the world

“Everyone has some agency in the world,” says Yuval Noah Harari ,”and everyone should have some responsibility for that.”

In this short video, (extract from a longer interview) Yuval Noah Harari talks about the seeds you plant in other people’s minds and the responsibility we have for those seeds: 

“Are you planting seeds of hatred?” 

So the next time a friend, relative or colleague asks your advice on some bigger life change, tell them “ I’ll think about it.” Instead of that immediate “Great!” you have on your lips.  Come back to them with a thought-through answer. That will gain respect. And you will have a better chance of planting some blooming flowers instead of the regular weeds we tend to spread.

p.s. here is a link to the whole interview with Yuval Noah Harari on Japanese TV

Picture: rescuing pets in Ukraine